Netball World Cup 2023: 1 day left until the first-ever Netball World Cup on African soil
With just 1 day left until the first-ever Netball World Cup on African soil, the SPAR Proteas are poised to give their all for the nation. The tournament kicks off tomorrow with South Africa facing Wales in what promises to be a thrilling match. Both teams are ranked in the top 10 worldwide, with South Africa at 5th and Wales at 9th. Group C also features Sri Lanka and Jamaica.
𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗙𝗜𝗫𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘𝗦 🏆
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) July 20, 2023
𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 1⃣
South Africa is grouped with Jamaica, Wales and Sri Lanka in Group C. Catch the SPAR Proteas in action LIVE on SuperSport and SABC Sport. 👏
🇿🇦🇯🇲🏴🇱🇰#SPARProteas | #NWC2023 pic.twitter.com/c4nq7NndQ0
Excitement Builds as the Home Team Prepares
As the opening day approaches, excitement and pressure mount for the SPAR Proteas to perform on home turf. The team has been preparing diligently since the start of the year, and their efforts have garnered significant support. The Branding Team’s strategic campaigns, along with Supersport partnerships and trophy tours, have ignited enthusiasm across the nation. Puma, the technical sponsor, has played a vital role in providing fanwear for supporters attending the games.
Balanced Blend of Experience and Youth
Led by Bongiwe Msomi, with Karla Pretorius as vice-captain, the team boasts a healthy mix of experience and young talent. Karla Pretorius, a standout goal defense, is expected to make her 100th appearance for the Proteas during the competition. Promising new additions like Jeante’ Strydom, Nicola Smith, Nichole Taljaard, and Elmere Van Der Berg add youthful vigor to the squad.
Symbolic Ceremonies Commence
The South African national Department presented the flag to the Spar Proteas yesterday, emphasizing their role as ambassadors of the country. Additionally, the traditional candle-lighting ceremony took place in Cape Town, symbolizing the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that netball embodies globally.
The captains of each of the participating nations have taken part in the ceremony since the inaugural tournament in 1963, which includes lighting a candle and pledging an oath to play in the spirit of true friendship and sportsmanship.
A representative of the match officials also lights a candle, pledging to officiate with fairness and impartiality according to the rules of the game.
🕯️ Since the inaugural tournament captains of each of the participating nations have taken part in a ceremony which includes lighting a candle and pledging an oath to play in the spirit of true friendship and sportsmanship.
— Netball South Africa (@Netball_SA) July 27, 2023
👉 https://t.co/SKSUSvTcZ3#NWC2023 | #PutYourHandsUp pic.twitter.com/XbZr3fkMug
Australia and New Zealand: The Dominant Forces
Australia and New Zealand have historically dominated the Netball World Cup, and both enter the tournament as pre-tournament favorites. Since 1999, every World Cup final has featured these two powerhouse nations. South Africa’s best performance came in 1995 when they reached the final against Australia. New Zealand, the defending champions, clinched a thrilling victory against Australia in the last edition, winning by just one point.
Thrilling Battle Ahead
With Australia currently holding the top spot in the world rankings, they are considered slight favorites over New Zealand. However, the SPAR Proteas are determined to make their mark and challenge these netball giants on their home ground. Let’s rally behind our team as they embark on this historic journey!
Shoot to https://t.co/6xf7oiCh7G to buy your tickets for the #NWC2023 pic.twitter.com/ovMleH5clB
— Netball World Cup (@NetballWorldCup) December 6, 2022
For More South African Sport News: Sport South Africa Home Page
For More South African Netball News:
SPAR Proteas Finalize World Cup Squad: Ready to Make History
Netball World Cup Trophy Arrives in Cape Town: South Africa Prepares for Historic Event
Gauteng Jaguars Secure Record Sixth Telkom Netball League Title as Limpopo Baobabs Earn Promotion
