Netball squad selected, awaits BONA approval
Naledi Lemogang | Tuesday June 13, 2017 15:21
However, the names have not been made public as the technical team has forwarded the list to the Botswana Netball Association (BONA) for approval. Botswana becomes the first African country to host a netball world cup competition, as 20 countries will meet in Gaborone from July 8 to 16. Head coach, Botlhole Mmopi has said they have selected a team of 12 players and three reserves. She said they have selected the squad and submitted the list to BONA for approval before public release.
The selection, she said, was based on their observations throughout the preparations and the daily improvement of the players. “I am happy with the final 15 that we have selected. However, we have submitted the team to BONA so that they can consent to it,” Mmopi said. The team arrived on Monday from Singapore where they went on a tour. The team also went to Australia for training where they won most of their preparatory matches.
BONA president, Tebogo Lebotse-Sebego said they will disclose the squad after they green light the selection. She said as soon as they conclude discussions around the team selection, they will formally announce the squad.
Kgomotso Mathibini, who was the team captain during the preparations, together with former captain, Katlego Dipatelelo, are some of the players expected to make the squad.
Meanwhile, the Local Organising Committee is arranging a trophy tour as attempts to hype up the event continue. The tour will start from June 21-30. The team would have their final camp at home as they lie in wait for their opponents.
Botswana will face Malaysia in their opening game on July 8. Tickets are already on sale at Spar shops, Webtickets, Sebele Pick ’n Pay, Maitisong and Streethorn Music Café.