Kenya Divas players at a past match. Photo/File
BY NEWSFLASH REPORTER
Kenya’s Divas will begin their Africa Netball Cup campaign against Nigeria on September 19 at 7pm, with the hosts confident of making a strong start despite having limited knowledge of their opponents.
The Kenyan side had a feel of the Kasarani Indoor Arena early on Friday before holding their final training session at the Kasarani Annex grounds in the evening as they fine-tuned preparations for the much-anticipated encounter.
Goalshooter Lydia Nyapere said the team was ready to translate weeks of preparation into action when the two sides meet.
“We are born ready,” said the Zimbabwe-based Nyapere, stressing that the players were determined to implement the skills and strategies imparted by their coaches.
However, she acknowledged that Nigeria presents a difficult challenge because Kenya has not had an opportunity to closely study their style of play.
“We don’t want to underestimate or underrate them because they are making their debut,” noted Nyapere, pointing to the uncertainty surrounding a side whose approach Kenya has not previously experienced in competition.
Different preparation
Another talking point in the build-up has been the contrasting preparation environments of the two teams. While Kenya has largely trained outdoors at home, Nigeria has prepared in indoor facilities during stints in Jamaica and the United Kingdom.
That difference could become significant once the match gets underway, particularly as Kenya adjusts to the conditions of the indoor arena.
Nyapere explained that the team would have to remain adaptable and respond to both the playing conditions and Nigeria’s approach once the game begins.
Coach Evelyn Jerono also admitted that the lack of meetings between the sides makes the opening fixture difficult to read.
Read more: Lydia Nyapere: From reluctant player to netball pro abroad
Kenya deliberately opted against playing friendlies during its preparations, with the technical bench prioritising player welfare and seeking to avoid injuries while keeping tactical plans under wraps.
Nigeria, meanwhile, has had some competitive exposure, including a warm-up match against Eswatini on Friday, but Kenya has no comparable recent competitive encounter against the West Africans.
Confidence in the squad
Despite the information gap, Jerono remains confident in her charges and views the opening match as one Kenya must win, particularly with the team enjoying home support.
Jerono explained that preparations under Zimbabwe head coach Tapiwa Chirenda had given the players confidence and assurance ahead of the tournament.
She added that the squad was mentally prepared to deal with the uncertainty surrounding Nigeria and the demands of an opening match.
Read more:Kabutha: Kenya ready to host 2027 Netball World Cup qualifier
For Kenya, the challenge will therefore be to balance confidence with caution. The hosts have the benefit of familiarity with their own squad and extensive preparation but must quickly adapt to an opponent whose tactics remain largely unknown.
Nigeria’s indoor preparation could also give them greater familiarity with the arena environment, while Kenya will have to make the transition from outdoor training to competitive indoor action.
With the Divas’ first whistle set for 7pm on September 19, the contest promises to test Kenya’s preparation, adaptability and composure as the Divas seek to launch their Africa Netball Cup campaign on a winning note.
About the Author
