She cranes netball team to attack giants England in Vitality cup opener

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The She Cranes, Uganda’s national netball team, are gearing up for a challenging opening match against England tonight in the Vitality Netball Cup at the Ovo Arena in Wembley, England. The team enters the tournament with confidence after securing a 2-1 victory against Welsh Feathers in the Netball Test series, boosting morale for the upcoming matches.

Ranked seventh in the World Netball Rankings, the She Cranes face a formidable challenge in the Vitality Cup, competing against strong teams like England, New Zealand, and Australia. England, the immediate opponent, holds the 3rd position with 8766 points. New Zealand ranks second with 9,332, closely trailing Australia, currently at the top with 8,874 points.

Despite facing tough competition, She Cranes players remain focused and determined to defy the odds. Farida Kadondi, a She Cranes player, acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating, “It will be really challenging because these other teams have more experienced players than Wales, but we are going to go tough better than we have been going.”

The team received a boost with the arrival of She Cranes legend Peace Proscovia, now serving as an assistant coach, and Goal Shooter Hanisha Muhammed—both absent during the Test series in Wales. Peace expressed confidence in the team’s determination and focus, emphasizing their readiness to win. Head Coach Fred Mugerwa acknowledges the tough competition but believes the team is well-prepared. He focuses on helping players free themselves from tight marking by opponents.

After facing England, the She Cranes will battle New Zealand tomorrow and Australia on January 27, 2024. The tournaments provide a chance for the She Cranes to showcase their talent after missing the Africa Netball Championship due to administrative turmoil resulting in the suspension of the Uganda Netball Federation Executive Board.

********

URN