Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) is reviewing the Malawi National Netball Team technical panel following the Queens’ struggles at the 2023 Fast5 World Netball Series in New Zealand where they lost all their six matches.

The association’s general secretary Isaac Chimwala confirmed in an interview yesterday that there are bound to be changes.

However, he could not be drawn to disclose more details, saying a formal statement will be issued once they are through with the process.

Said Chimwala: “We are reviewing the performance of the team, but on whether there will be chances, we will make a formal statement.”

Queens’ defender Towera Vinkhumbo (L) in action against Australia at the Fast5 tournament

He also acknowledged that the continued use of Samuel Kanyenda as caretaker coach is affecting his role as technical director (TD) of the association.

“As a TD, his area of focus covers a bigger picture which is being compromised by his involvement with the Queens and that is something that is also being looked into,” said Chimwala.

However, a NAM source confided that the association has settled for Imoysis coach and former Queens captain Joana Kachilika as interim coach with the current assistant coach Eleanor Mapulanga earmarked for the position of trainer.

In an interview yesterday, Kanyenda said he heard about the imminent changes in passing.

“Perhaps, it is a sign that I have failed to perform. But so far, I have not received any official communication,” he said.

On the cloud of uncertainty about the team’s participation  at the Africa Netball Championship scheduled for November 26 in Gaborone, Botswana, Chimwala said they are keeping their fingers crossed that government will provide the required K123 million extra funding.

He said: “Of course, not an ideal situation, but we are hoping that something will come out

“We have currently embarked on home training sessions for the girls just to keep them in shape.

“Not an ideal situation, but we are trying everything possible so that we are not caught off-guard in the event that funding is approved, knowing that from experience, government comes in late at times.”

In an interview yesterday, Malawi National Council of Sports spokesperson Edgar Ntulumbwa said they are still waiting for a response from the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

“As of now, we have not received any response and we are still waiting for the feedback,” he said.

Botswana Netball Association last week confirmed that it will host the tournament, which will run from November 26 to December 6 at the University of Botswana indoor facility.

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