The SPAR Proteas are set to begin their Africa Netball Cup campaign with one clear objective — to defend their continental title and once again bring the trophy home. The tournament will be held in Nairobi, Kenya from 19-26 September 2026. South Africa enter the tournament as defending champions and one of the most successful teams in the competition’s history. The Proteas first lifted the Africa Netball Cup in 2013, before adding further titles in 2019, 2021, 2024 and 2025. This year, however, presents a slightly different challenge for head coach Jenny van Dyk, with several changes to the squad creating an opportunity to test South Africa’s depth while continuing their pursuit of another African title.
Van Dyk embraces the challenge
“We know exactly who we are up against and it’s something
that we are now used to.”
The coach also expressed her excitement about facing Kenya
and working with a new group of players, with several changes to the squad
providing an opportunity to explore different combinations.
“I’m excited to see Kenya and working with a new group of
players. There are quite a few changes in the team and we are ready for the
challenge.”
Defending champions have their eyes on the trophy
Despite the changes to the squad, South Africa’s main
objective remains unchanged. As defending champions, the Proteas will be
looking to retain the Africa Netball Cup, with Van Dyk emphasising that the
team is focused on returning home with the trophy.
“The main goal remains the same. We have to go and defend
the title and come back with the fantastic Africa Netball Cup.”
South Africa and Uganda have already secured qualification
for the World Cup, meaning their places are locked in, while several other
African nations will still be competing for qualification. That situation will
not change the way South Africa approaches its opponents. Van Dyk stressed that
the Proteas will not underestimate any team and will ensure they are fully
prepared for each match.
“We won’t take any team we play against lightly. We’ll make
sure that we understand who we play against.”
Testing the depth of the Proteas squad
While defending the title remains the priority, the
tournament will also provide South Africa with an important opportunity to
assess the depth of its squad. A number of players who do not regularly receive
significant game time will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities on
the international stage. For Van Dyk, the competition will be about
understanding what options the Proteas have within their squad and how
different combinations can be utilised against different opponents.
“For South Africa, it’s more about testing the depth that
the squad has, as there are most players who don’t usually get game time.”
The technical team will also focus on developing tactical
flexibility by testing different strategies and combinations during the
tournament — an area Van Dyk says they had already identified during the
Commonwealth Games.
Maseko embraces captaincy responsibility
Adding to the significance of this year’s campaign is the
appointment of Kamogelo Maseko as captain of the SPAR Proteas. For Maseko,
leading the defending champions is both an honour and a responsibility she does
not take lightly. Speaking about the mood within the camp, Maseko said the
squad is excited about the opportunity to represent South Africa on the
international stage.
“Everyone is excited that they get to represent the country
on the international stage. There are a couple of nerves, but everyone is
looking forward to the tournament.”
The combination of excitement and nerves reflects the
significance of the opportunity for a squad that includes several players who
will be looking to make their mark at international level.For Maseko
personally, being entrusted with the captaincy represents a major milestone.
“It’s a great and huge honour. I’m privileged and I
understand the responsibility that comes with it.”
Maseko acknowledges that leading a team tasked with
defending a continental title will not be an easy assignment. However, she
believes the support around her will help her navigate the responsibility.
“It won’t be an easy task, but having the backing of the
team, the coaches and Netball SA is making things easier.”»
A new-look squad with a familiar ambition
The decision to assemble a different squad from the usual
Proteas line-up was discussed well in advance, according to Van Dyk. While
introducing new combinations can bring additional pressure, the coach is
excited about the energy that the players bring into the camp.
“We understand that it can put pressure on us, but I’m
excited because these players have so much fiery, enthusiasm and passion.”
That energy could prove valuable as South Africa balance two
important objectives — defending their continental crown while building greater
depth within the national team. For Maseko, the responsibility is equally
clear. She will lead a group of players eager to seize their opportunity, while
the coaching staff will use the tournament to assess combinations, tactical
options and players who could become important contributors to the Proteas in
future international campaigns.
The Africa Netball Cup therefore represents more than
another title defence for South Africa. It is an opportunity to strengthen the
squad, expose new players to international competition and develop the tactical
versatility needed for future challenges. The SPAR Proteas want to defend their
crown, and Maseko will lead a new-look South African side in pursuit of another
Africa Netball Cup title.
Upcoming fixtures
19 September | 10:00 (SAST)
Tanzania vs South Africa
20 September | 15:00 (SAST)
South Africa vs Zimbabwe
22 September | 15:00 (SAST)
South Africa vs Botswana
23 September | 17:00 (SAST)
Namibia vs South Africa
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