/ 11 June 2012

SA netball on track for Jamaica showdown

South Africa netball captain Amanda Mynhardt.
South Africa netball captain Amanda Mynhardt.

“I was inspired by each and every one of my players,” Mynhardt said.

“They put so much into the training camp and showed signs of real greatness.”

The Proteas departed for Kingston, Jamaica on Sunday, where they meet the Jamaican under-21 side on Thursday ahead of the Test series.

“I believe strongly in the players we have and I know we can do some serious damage in Kingston,” Mynhardt added.

“I was particularly inspired by the positive way we ended our training camp – a good sign for a captain.”

‘Sunshine girls’
Proteas coach Elize Kotze said the team were in a good frame of mind and confident of a successful tour against the ‘Sunshine Girls’.

“The girls have been working very hard for this tour,” she said.

“They know what is at stake and with some new caps and experienced players in our squad.

“I believe that we have every chance of doing well and upsetting the favoured Jamaican team.”

Jamaica – ranked fourth in the world – have played South Africa 12 times since 1963, with the South Africans winning just three matches against the islanders.

“We respect the Jamaican team. They are tall, fast and play a unique aggressive type of netball that is difficult to counter,” Kotze said.

“They also have the advantage of playing at home, and are a young side so will be going all out to prove in front of their fans what they are made of.

“This will make it tough but we are ready to take on the challenge.” – Sapa