The Malawi men’s under-21 hockey national team is scheduled to leave for Lusaka, Zambia, tomorrow to compete in the Zambezi Test Series from 7-9 June 2024.
This follows the recent outdoor ranking by the International Hockey Federation (IHF) in which Malawi is ranked 95th globally and 10th in Africa.
The test series was initially planned to involve four countries – Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. However, Zimbabwe withdrew last minute due to some challenges.
The games will be played in a round-robin format.
Malawi’s first match will be against Uganda on Friday at 10:00 am at the Olympic Development Center, followed by a match against the host Zambia on the same day at 7:00 pm.
Speaking in an interview Godfrey Biya, the General Secretary of the Hockey Association of Malawi, the test series presents an opportunity for players to showcase their talent.
“This will be Malawi’s first time participating in the Zambezi Test Series, we aim to display our talents and view this a future investment. We are grateful for the support provided by the sports council.” Explained Biya.
The squad and the technical panel and technical Pannel consist of; Madalitso Khulukulu and Joshua Nyirenda (goal keepers) Gift Kagwada, Alinafe Phiri, Benard Chiumia, Chifundo Jali, Peter Jere, Jackson Zimitsani and Patrick Malenga (midfielders), Genest Gunde, Valentino Kamwendo, Adams Shukurani, Kalumbika Mhango, Admor Nasho and Gerald Mpachika (defenders).
Kudakwashe Kunde, Galikai Gondwe, Denollye Mgeni, Kingsley Jere, Dominic Mwanoka and Malili Alexande (forwards), Ulemu Ngwira (head coach), Geoffrey Gama (team manager).
