Malawi asks Waves to release Mwawi for TZ tourney
Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) general secretary, Helene Mpinganjira , said they were still discussing with Australian side Peninsula Waves to release Mwawi Kumwenda to pay for Malawi Queens this year’s Africa Netball Championship set for next month in Tanzania.
The competition is expected to kick-off on May 8-18 at National Stadium in Dar salaam, Tanzania.
Kumwenda has excused herself because if congested fixtures at her Peninsula Waves club in next.
The Malawi Queens evergreen shooter was called into camp alongside the other 21 ladies, who are in camp in readiness for the tournament.
Kumwenda wrote on her Facebook page: “Wishing Malawi Queens all the best at African Championship. Glad, l have been called for national duty but unfortunately will not be able to leave Australia for TZ (Tanzania) proudly Malawian.”
Her coach at her club, Robyn Pym also commented on the same post concurring with Kumwenda: “To Malawian coaching staff and netballers Mwai is under contract in Australia until August she cannot leave to play these games. We are happy to excuse last year for World Championships, however this year no arrangement was made. This should give another Malawian player an opportunity.”
Mpinganjira conceded that they delayed in asking for Mwayi’s services.
“We delayed to request for her clearance because of logistical problems,” she said.
But added: “ We are hopeful that she [Mwawi] would be released.”
In an interview with Nyasa Times, Kumwenda said there would be remote chances for her to be available for the Tanzania trip.
“I could have loved to be with my friends in Tanzania but l can confirm to you that l will not take part because my club cannot allow me. I hope people will understand my situation because lam following
what is speculated in my contract with Waves. We have crucial fixtures and the club cannot let me leave,” said the towering start player.
Kumwenda however said the squad is comprised of the best cream in Malawi’s netball.
“I saw the squad which has been called for camp, and it is one of the best with a lot of young and upcoming players. I love my country and lam still proud to be born a Malawian,” said Kumwenda, who has already banged a lot of baskets this season for her club.
Queens are ranked first in Africa and fifth in the world.
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