By Burnett Munthali
Nico Group, a key sponsor of the Malawi Queens, has expressed its deep appreciation for the support extended to the national netball team by the Malawian community in the United Kingdom. The praise comes following the Queens’ practice match against the British Army in Nottingham, where Malawians living in the UK turned out in large numbers to cheer on their team.
The Corporate Affairs Manager of Nico Group, Mbba Mlia Ndasauka, who attended the match, shared her satisfaction with the team’s preparation and the overwhelming support they received. Speaking after watching the practice session, Ndasauka expressed confidence in the Queens’ readiness for the upcoming challenges.
“We are happy so far with the preparations of the games,” Ndasauka said. “The Malawi Queens are pushing themselves. They are training every day, and yesterday’s practice match gave us a picture of their level of preparedness.”
A Solid Performance Ahead of Vitality Cup
The practice match against the British Army served as an important gauge of the Queens’ form as they head into the 2025 Vitality Cup, a major tournament that will see them face off against the best in international netball. The match, while not a formal competition, allowed the Malawi Queens to fine-tune their skills and assess their readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.
With their unwavering dedication and rigorous training regimen, the Queens demonstrated their commitment to competing at the highest level. Ndasauka noted that the team’s effort and focus in the buildup to the tournament had been evident, and she expressed her excitement for their upcoming opening match against England this Saturday.
The match against England, which will mark the start of the 2025 Vitality Cup, is highly anticipated, with fans eager to see how the Queens measure up against one of the world’s strongest netball teams. For the Malawi Queens, it is not just about the competition but also about showing their resilience and determination on the global stage.
Malawians in the UK Show Their Support
One of the highlights of the practice match in Nottingham was the exceptional turnout from Malawians living in the UK. Ndasauka expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the vibrant show of support from the diaspora community, which helped boost the morale of the team. According to Ndasauka, the presence of these passionate fans made the Queens feel at home and energized them to perform at their best.
“We look forward to Saturday’s games with England, and we are also grateful for the support the High Commissioner’s Office gave us and all Malawians who showed up for the game yesterday,” Ndasauka said. She emphasized that the support from both the local Malawian community and diplomatic channels had a significant impact on the players’ motivation.
The Malawi Queens’ preparation for international tournaments is always a collective effort, and the involvement of the diaspora adds a special layer of significance to their campaign. This support from the UK-based Malawians underscores the unifying power of sports, bringing together people from various backgrounds to rally behind their team.
A Motivating Experience for the Queens
For the players, the support from the diaspora not only lifts their spirits but also reinforces the importance of representing their country on the world stage. The Queens, who have consistently demonstrated resilience and commitment in previous tournaments, have become role models for many young Malawians. The motivation from the crowd in Nottingham was a reminder of the pride that their achievements bring to the nation, both at home and abroad.
Ndasauka noted that the Queens felt a sense of belonging and were deeply motivated by the outpouring of support. “The team felt at home and motivated by the support,” she added. It is this kind of support that pushes the players to strive for excellence, knowing that their performance is being watched and celebrated by their fellow Malawians, regardless of where they are in the world.
Looking Ahead: The 2025 Vitality Cup
With the practice match now behind them, the Malawi Queens are ready to take on England and other competitors in the 2025 Vitality Cup. This prestigious tournament is an opportunity for the Queens to showcase their talents on the world stage and continue their growth as a dominant force in international netball.
As they head into their opening match this Saturday, the Malawi Queens will do so with the confidence that their training and preparation have been thorough, and with the support of the Malawian community both at home and abroad, they are ready to compete fiercely for the title.
With Nico Group’s sponsorship and the continued backing of Malawians worldwide, the Malawi Queens are poised for success. The team’s journey in the 2025 Vitality Cup is not just a sporting event but a testament to the power of unity, hard work, and national pride. As the Queens prepare to face England, they know that the whole of Malawi stands behind them, cheering them on every step of the way.
