The 2024 SPAR Challenge features the long-standing rivalry between African netball powerhouses as the SPAR Proteas face off against the Malawi Queens in a three-Test series at Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg from October 31 to November 3.
Currently ranked fifth and sixth in the world, South Africa and Malawi have a fierce rivalry as they compete to be Africa’s number one. Malawi historically posed a challenge for South Africa until 2011 when South Africa emerged victorious at the Netball World Cup in Singapore.
With 38 matches played between the two teams, South Africa holds a lead over Malawi with a head-to-head record of 25-12 and 1 test match drawn. The teams last met in a series at Sun City in 2020, which South Africa won 3-0 despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
SPAR National PR, Communications and Sponsorships Manager, Mpudi Maubane, highlighted SPAR’s commitment to women’s empowerment through sports sponsorship and community engagement.
“Our commitment goes beyond financial support to encompass a holistic approach to empowering women in sports. By aligning with netball, a sport often associated with female participation, we not only promote the game but also foster a culture that champions women.”
SPAR National PR, Communications and Sponsorships Manager, Mpudi Maubane
Maubane emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers for women in sports and creating opportunities for them to shine on and off the field through initiatives like the SPAR Challenge.
Continuing their support for women in sports, SPAR aims to uplift and empower women both on and off the field with a focus on equality and creating opportunities for women athletes.
“As I always say, SPAR is good for netball. We as NSA recognise and appreciate the contribution that our partner, SPAR has made to netball over the last three decades.”
Netball South Africa President, Cecilia Molokwane
Netball South Africa President, Cecilia Molokwane, praised SPAR for their support in developing and showcasing the skills of the SPAR Proteas, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment and inclusivity in sports.
The 2024 SPAR Challenge will be hosted at Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg with City Executive Director for Community Development, Siyanda Mnukwa, expressing excitement about bringing vibrancy back to the inner city through sporting events.
Tickets for the event are available at https://shop.netball-sa.org.za/ with prices of R100 for adults and R30 for children.
2024 SPAR Challenge Fixtures:
Thursday, October 31 (18h00): First Test – South Africa vs Malawi
Saturday, November 2 (17h00): Second Test – South Africa vs Malawi
Sunday, November 3 (15h00): Third Test – South Africa vs Malawi
Original Copy: Netball South Africa, with editing by gsport
Main Photo Caption: World no. 5 South Africa and world no. 6 Malawi will compete in a three-Test 2024 SPAR Challenge International Netball Test Series at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg from October 31, 2024. Photo: Netball SA
