Proteas captain Chawane backs Commonwealth Games semi-final target

Speaking to SABC Sport after SASCOC unveiled Team South Africa for the Games in Glasgow from 23 July to 2 August, Chawane said the players have set the same goal for themselves.

READ: SASCOC gives Team SA freedom to shine at Commonwealth Games

The skipper insists there is no added pressure on the squad, as reaching the semi-finals has always been part of their ambitions.  

"Yes, definitely, I think it’s not just them, but us as well - that is what we want as players. We got the mandate, we spoke about it and we don't see it as pressure. It is something we also want as players, we just need to work hard," said Chawane.

The 30-year-old from Tzaneen is preparing for her second Commonwealth Games appearance and will lead the Proteas at the event for the first time.

Chawane says wearing the captain’s armband on such a big stage is a special honour and she is determined to guide the team to a strong finish.

"Firstly, I am very excited - it is a privilege to represent South Africa. This is my second Commonwealth Games. The first one was great, but we didn't do well as a team. This time around we are focusing on ourselves as a team to represent South Africa well. I am excited, captaining a team to the Commonwealth games feels really great for me," added Chawane.

The Proteas have been drawn in a tough Group B alongside Australia, England, Tonga, Northern Ireland and African rivals Malawi.

Despite the challenge, Chawane believes South Africa is slowly closing the gap on the world's top teams.

She pointed to the Proteas’ victory over England earlier this year as proof that they can compete with and beat the sport’s traditional powerhouses.

Chawane also paid tribute to former Proteas captain Bongiwe Msomi, who led the team at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games four years ago.

Msomi has since retired from international netball and will serve as Team South Africa’s Chef de Mission in Glasgow.

Chawane says she is proud to see her former captain continue making an impact in South African sport through her leadership role.  

"I am really excited for her, and congratulations to her. She is definitely a great leader after leading the Spar Proteas for almost 10 years. She has the experience and deserves the position," she expressed.