Softball team leaves for World challenge
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday July 15, 2016 11:04
The head coach, Basiame Molathiwa is beaming with confidence as he is entering a familiar territory, having been to the World Championships on two occasions.
“I am not a rookie on the world stage. I have been there before and I know what is expected,” he said in an interview with Mmegi Sport on Wednesday.
Botswana’s first game is against USA, with the second match against two time champions, Argentina. Molathiwa said he was aware that USA had more time to prepare for the championship as the hosts. He said playing Argentina would be a motivation and the results will not matter. He said the game would prepare them for the other fixtures.
Molathiwa said his players are ready to compete and they are a strong team that intend to give their best to bring the results home.
He said the team stands a good chance of performing better than the 2008 group that competed in Canada.
“Pitching is spot on and it will play an important role in defence. Batting is important in getting us the much needed points. We are Africans and we are stronger than our opponents. That is an advantage to us. The other African country at the championship is South Africa,” said Molathiwa.
He said due to injuries, there have been some changes to the initial team that was selected.
The team: Samuel Kunyalala (pitcher), Gideon Puakaa (pitcher), Kabo Tsiripe (pitcher), Tumisang Moakofhi (pitcher),Boikanyo Motlaleng (pitcher) Ali Busang (catcher), Obakeng Gaobatege (catcher), Lebogang Sedibelo (catcher), Kabo Kealotswe (infield), Makata Makata (infield), Maatla Mpeba (infield), Tshepho Ditiro (infield), Mmoloki Mpho (infield), Thabang Tshipa (infield), Ofentse Ketshogile (infield), Munashe Chibinyani (outfield), Mokoba Modiegi (outfield), Reuben Office (outfield), Oreneetse Bojosi (outfield), Shareef Mpuang (outfield).
Renny Molete (head of delegation), Letsweletse Jonas (team manager), Tony Moyo (coach-pitching), Thompson Misael (coach-hitting), Otimile Tapiso (coach), Gabotepele Molefhi (team physiotherapist), Kgalemang Moamerika (team statical) and Abel Mataboge (umpire).