NAIROBI, KENYA – The SPAR Proteas continued their formidable form on Day 2 of the 2026 Africa Netball Cup, securing a decisive 58-41 victory over Zimbabwe at the Moi International Sports Centre. The win ensures South Africa remains unbeaten as they march forward in their title defence, building perfectly on their dominant opening-day victory.
It was a particularly momentous occasion for midcourter Refiloe Nketsa, who earned her 50th test cap for the national side. As Netball South Africa rightfully celebrated: “From debut to #50! A special milestone for Refiloe Nketsa in the green and gold. ✨ Congratulations, Fifi! 👏“
Tactical Dominance and Early Control
Head Coach Jenny van Dyk made a few strategic adjustments to her starting seven following yesterday’s win against Tanzania, and the team responded with clinical precision. South Africa burst out of the blocks, utilizing their tactical discipline to suffocate the Zimbabwean attack and force numerous unforced errors. The early dominance was reflected on the scoreboard, with the Proteas securing a 14-6 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The momentum carried seamlessly into the second quarter. The Proteas intensified their defensive pressure and maintained their shooting accuracy, heading into the halftime break with a comfortable 29-17 advantage.
Championship Quarter Rotations
The third quarter – often termed the “championship quarter” – saw Van Dyk make a crucial change in the shooting circle. Day 1 debutant Tinita van Dyk was introduced as Goal Shooter, replacing Rolene Streutker. The substitution paid immediate dividends, with Tinita sinking her first attempt straight from South Africa’s centre pass. The Proteas continued to dictate the tempo, ending the third frame with a 44-30 lead.
Showcasing Squad Depth
With the result well in hand, the final 15 minutes provided another opportunity to test the squad’s depth. The coaching staff executed widespread rotations: Owethu Ngubane stepped in for captain Kamogelo Maseko, while Luca Keun replaced Thulisile Maduna in defence. Kyla Dames took over midcourt duties for the milestone-celebrating Nketsa, and Nonsikelelo Mazibuko entered the fray alongside a positional shift that saw Van Dyk move to goalkeeping duties.
Despite the sweeping changes and new combinations on the floor, the Proteas did not miss a beat, maintaining their dominance to close out the match 58-41. South Africa has now gone two games without a loss, firmly establishing their intent to retain the African crown.
SCORE BREAKDOWN:
- Q1: SPAR Proteas 14 – 06 Zimbabwe
- Q2: SPAR Proteas 15 – 11 Zimbabwe
- Q3: SPAR Proteas 15 – 13 Zimbabwe
- Q4: SPAR Proteas 14 – 11 Zimbabwe
Looking Ahead: Proteas vs Botswana
South Africa will look to extend their unbeaten streak when they return to the court for their next fixture. The SPAR Proteas will face off against Botswana on Tuesday at 15:00 (SA Time).
Fans can follow the action from Nairobi as the SPAR Proteas defend their African crown. All matches for the 2026 Africa Netball Cup are available globally and streamed LIVE and FREE on Discover Sport at https://www.discoversport.com/.
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