Mami Diale: Spar Proteas can deliver top four finish at 2027 Netball World Cup

South Africa finished runners-up after losing 56-53 to Uganda at the 2026 Africa Cup final, missing out on defending their continental title. However, their second-place finish was enough to secure one of the four available World Cup spots allocated to African nations.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Diale says the focus will now shift to preparations for the global showpiece, with the team set to gain international experience through various Test Series.

“We have a group of talented players who have been tested across various netball competitions and tournaments. We are confident that the Spar Proteas will deliver a strong performance at the 2027 Netball World Cup. Our goal is to finish in the top four, and we are working tirelessly to achieve that. As part of our preparation, we will continue to compete in different Test Series as part of our build-up to the World Cup,” said Diale.

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South Africa will be joined by Uganda, Malawi and Namibia as the four African representatives at next year’s tournament. Diale believes the growing competitiveness of netball across the continent is a positive sign for the sport’s development.

“Netball has grown tremendously in Africa. More African teams are performing at a high level and are providing us with strong competition.

“We have built solid relationships with our fellow African netball nations. We invite them to compete in our leagues and championships to enhance their performance, and several African players now feature in our Telkom Netball League. Together we rise – Africa to the world,” added Diale.

Meanwhile, the South African men’s national team, the Protea Warriors, successfully defended their Africa Cup title after edging neighbours Eswatini 49-45 in a hard-fought final at the International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Kenya.

Diale has also praised the team’s achievement, saying the federation is also working towards securing a title sponsor for the men’s national team.

“We are proud of the performance of the Protea Warriors for winning the Africa Cup. They displayed excellence and represented the country with pride and dignity.

“We are now actively seeking a title sponsor for the men’s team and are strategically positioning them to attract sponsorships. We are confident that we will achieve our goal.”