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Ellina Mhlanga-Senior Sports Reporter 

NGEZI Platinum Queens coach Tapiwa Chirenda says they are up against tough opponents this weekend when the Premier Netball League games resume. 

They are up against defending champions Platinum Queens, Harare District, Mutare City and City Angels. 

For this weekend’s games, Ngezi will be led by assistant coach Paidamoyo Pedzisayi since Chirenda is in camp with the senior national team, he is one of the Gems’ assistant coaches. 

Their game against Platinum Queens is likely to be the major highlight of the day when the five teams converge in Mhondoro-Ngezi tomorrow. 

“It’s going to be tough. We have some new players but the team has gelled well. 

“I am expecting Platinum Queens to give us a tough time. Harare District are also not to be overlooked. I think it’s going to be the toughest bubble.

“It’s not going to be a walk in the park, let alone we are facing the defending champions. It’s just going to be tough throughout.

“My absence may affect the team a bit but I am confident they are in the capable hands of Pedzisayi,” said Chirenda.

The games are being played in clusters with five clubs converging at each of the selected venues across the country. 

Ngezi had a good start to the season, winning all their games in the first bubble when beating Filchrist Boarding, Marondera, Waterfalls and Filchrist ZJC. 

Chirenda, who joined the club in February, believes they can build on that and is confident his side can rise to the challenge. 

“I speak to the girls, the captain and morale is very high, so I am confident they can do it. When we played the first bubble, we were the best defending team, we conceded less compared to other teams. So I think defence will be our strength,” said Chirenda. 

The club roped in Pretty Chatadza, Portia Bonzo — both play wing defence — and goal keeper Marian Chiwawa. They also brought in Hearther Tshuma on wing attack. 

Team manager Getrude Sibanda said they have done their homework and are ready for the weekend’s games. 

“We are 100 percent prepared. We played really well in the first bubble. We noticed that our players have improved, so it gives us hope that we will play well against Platinum Queens,” said Sibanda. 

Platinum Queens also got the ball rolling on a high when picking up their first eight points of the season in the first week of the games.  The reigning champions have made it clear, they would want to defend the title for a third consecutive season. 

The other matches are expected to be held in Chisumbaje and for Harare, PNL secretary-general Liberty Mhizha said they are still finalising on the venue and schedule.