SA netball team crowned 2019 Africa Cup champions

The South African netball team has triumphed as the 2019 Africa Netball Cup champions, defeating Zambia in an intense competition. The Spar Proteas head coach, Dorit Badenhorst, and the team's goalkeeper, Zanele Vimbela, recently joined CNBC Africa to discuss their remarkable victory and shed light on the challenges they face as they strive to elevate the sport in South Africa. Badenhorst clarified that while this win may seem like the team's first in a decade, it is in fact the first in which they have participated after a hiatus. The team's remarkable journey to clinch the gold began with Badenhorst's appointment a mere 21 days before the tournament kicked off, offering little time for preparations. In a whirlwind of changing schedules and unexpected challenges, the team rallied together under Badenhorst's guidance to achieve glory. Vimbela highlighted the team's ability to adapt to adversity and embody a resilient spirit throughout the competition. Despite securing top rankings globally and finishing fourth in the World Cup, the netball team faces a stark reality of limited funding and support compared to more prominent sports in South Africa such as rugby and cricket. Many netball players juggle full-time jobs alongside their athletic pursuits, making it difficult to sustain a professional career in the sport. The struggle to retain talent is evident as players opt to join international leagues in the pursuit of professional opportunities. While the team continues to excel on the world stage, efforts to establish a professional league in South Africa remain a work in progress. Badenhorst emphasized the need for a sustainable national league to foster talent development and prevent further player exodus. With several players already signed to overseas teams, the urgency to strengthen local leagues and retain homegrown talent has never been more critical. The team's success serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of South African netball players, urging stakeholders to rally behind the sport and pave the way for a brighter future.