Flames’ Protea stars complete deserved Wales whitewash

It is safe to say that South African netball is on a definite upward curve with three confidence-boosting wins in three days to start their year’s preparation on the right track.

There was no stopping The Spar Proteas who completed a  well-deserved 3-0 whitewash against Wales in the recent netball Spar  Challenge international netball series that was held at the Durban International Convention Centre from 17-19 June.

The Proteas won the first test 63-43, the second test 64-45 and the third test 64-50 to complete the unbeaten display. The u.21’s also completed a 3-0 whitewash with massive 75-21, 73-22 and 88-21 victories in the one-sided series.

The North West Flames’ Protea debutantes, Renske Stoltz and Sigi Burger both got game time in the series and performed admirably, enjoying every minute on the court against the Welsh.

“It was an unforgettable experience to stand in a circle with the best players in the country, and to score my first goal for SA was really special. It is what a player can only dream about and difficult to put into words,” said Stoltz.

Jeanté Strydom, who was selected for the u.21 side against Wales put on a stunning performance in the second test to take the player of the match award.

“It was one of my best netball experiences, although the preparation was mentally and physically tough. We played as a unit as we spent a lot of time together as a team.

It was a massive honour to play for my country. I was extremely proud,” said Strydom.

Some of the standout players for the Proteas were veteran centre Erin Burger and goal shooter, Lenize Potgieter, who is currently playing her club netball in England. Potgieter was named the player of the series.

Proteas coach, Norma Plummer rang the changes throughout the three-match series as she tried and  tested various combinations to see what works best.

“We were 20 goals ahead at that   stage, and that’s an ideal time to bring on players for their first appearance in Proteas kit.

I think they did us proud,” she said on the Netball SA website.