Softball teams prepare for world championships

Calistus Kolantsho | Friday November 23, 2018 12:15

As part of the preparations, the two sides host neighbour South Africa tomorrow at the National Diamond. The men’s coach, Pako Maforaga said they would use tomorrow’s international friendly match to finalise the national team.

He said after their international competitions last year, they realised the need to beef up some areas, especially offence.

“I had to bring in some players to increase the depth of the team. Some players’ performance had also declined, which means they had to be replaced. I am also giving new players a feel of an international match,” Maforaga said.

He said the team failed to play at last year’s Intercontinental Cup, which the Czech Republic hosted, due to some challenges. Maforaga said he wants to create an open environment that would make it easy for the new players to gel with the older generation. “I do not want a situation whereby other players feel out of place. They must be a team,” he said.  Maforaga said there were trials before the players, who are currently in camp, were picked. He said it was normal for a coach to pick some elements from some players late.

A total of 28 players have been invited for the camp and the final 20 would be selected after the friendly match.

The junior and senior women’s teams will also play against South Africa.  The visitors are bringing senior women, but Botswana has decided to field a predominantly Under-19 team. Only the South African catcher and a pitcher are from the senior team.

The games will serve as preparations for the Africa qualifiers scheduled for January 2019 in Pretoria where Botswana and South Africa would be looking to secure a slot to represent Africa at the WBSC World Championships next June. The women’s team has 35 players and they would be trimmed after the South African clash.

The head of Botswana delegation, Kelebogile Seitei said the women’s Under-19 coach has not been appointed.

 

The men’s team

Pitchers: Kagiso Mogale, Romeo Tshelametse,

Kunyalala Samuel, Gideon Puaka and Buti Buile.

Catchers: Unaswi Gudu, Boitshwarelo Odirile, Edwin Gaofano, Thabiso Radithobane and Mothudi Rannaneng.

Infield: Jury Manaka, Brian Dekoker, Obusitswe Legothu, Moses Kgosimore, Godson Motsumi, Thapelo Pilane, Tiro Mazulungwa and Tayo Kenosi.

Outfield: Mabedi Senyerero, Eric Simwanza, Odirile Legau, Munashe Chibinyane and Thabo Dhlodhlo.

Utility: Morulaganyi Moalosi, Baolopi Thamuku, Tony Leburu and Mothusi Shalobane.

Team management: Nozibonela Payet (manager), James Moremedi (assistant coach) and Tony Moyo (pitching coach).