By Llywellenie Mpasa:
The Malawi National Netball Team, the Queens, arrived home on Wednesday through Chileka International Airport after participating in the 2025 Vitality Nations Cup in the United Kingdom.
The tournament, which featured England, Uganda, South Africa, and Malawi, saw the Queens finishing in fourth place.
Upon arrival at Chileka International Airport, co-coach Peace Chawinga- Kalua said the Queens’ participation in the tournament was not just about competition but also about gaining exposure and experience.
“Despite finishing last in the tournament, I believe we showed remarkable improvement,” she said.
She said there were several positives from the tournament.
“The players demonstrated great teamwork, and the victory against Uganda was a huge morale booster. We were also competitive against South Africa, and the margin of defeat shows how close the game was,” she said.
During the tournament, the Queens lost 62-36 to eventual champions and hosts England in their opener. But they bounced back in their second match as they registered 59-45 victory over Uganda, marking their first win against the She Cranes since 2019.
The team lost 58-55 to South Africa before 50-45 defeat to Uganda. Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) president Vitumbiko Gubuduza said the Quad Series provided a valuable platform for the team’s rebuilding process.
“We recognize the Queens’ efforts at the Vitality Nations Cup and will continue working to provide them with the necessary support for future competitions. This tournament was an important stepping stone for our netball development,” she said.
The Queens have embarked on a rebuilding exercise with support from their sponsors, Nico Group.
Nico Holdings Corporate Affairs Manager Mbumba Mlia-Ndasauka said as sponsors they were impressed with the team’s progress.
“The experience gained from playing against top-ranked teams will be valuable as they continue their journey in international netball,” she said.
She announced that as part of the rebuilding process, Nico will launch the Nico Top 12 Netball Tournament, which will allow Nam to scout talent for the national team.
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