Botswana’s solo run

Botswana’s bid was left hanging by a thread after partners in the joint bid, Namibia pulled out at the 11th hour. Namibia cited budgetary constraints after the facilities auditor indicated P4.2 billion was required from Botswana’s neighbour to upgrade infrastructure.

Botswana was expected to follow suit and pull out, but Rakgare told journalists in Gaborone on Wednesday that the bid was still very much alive. Rakgare is optimistic Botswana will land the rights to host the tournament. “We believe we stand as good a chance as any of the other bidders if not a better chance,” he said.