Story by Anashe Murombedzi, Sports Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Under-21 hockey teams have started preparations for the Junior Africa Cup set to be held in Namibia within the next two months.
The tournament, which was initially set for December last year, will see junior teams competing for the African title and earn a slot for the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Junior World Cups.
Zimbabwe is fielding both men’s and women’s teams at the continental event with the ultimate goal to secure a podium finish and qualify for the FIH Junior World Cups.
The tournament will feature 24 teams in both men’s and women’s competitions for the first time.
Coach, Prince Mwale, has retained most of the players from the squads announced last year in October, with a few additions and adjustments.
He said, “We’re aiming for a podium finish and qualification for the FIH Junior World Cups. The team has been working hard, and we’re confident that we can make a strong showing at the Junior Africa Cup.”
Notable additions include South Africa-based John-Mark Benadie and Poland-based Joseph Ncube.
The foreign-based players, including Captain Mutsawashe Kanyangarara, Takudzwa Miles Makudo, Nathaniel Hlabangana, and Ngonidzashe Ndadzibaya will travel early to Namibia and have a few days with the whole team.
