Takudzwa Mukombami
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE has selected a 33-member squad for the 2025 FIH Junior Under 21 women’s Hockey World Cup, set for December in Santiago, Chile.
The Hockey Association of Zimbabwe confirmed the squad on Thursday with secretary Sarah Bennett and head coach Brad Heuer expressing confidence in the players’ ability to rise to the challenge.
“We are very confident of our ladies. They are going to bring glory home,” said Heuer.
The squad has been in camp at Chisipite, sharpening its preparations for the tournament that will run from December 1 to 13.
Zimbabwe has now qualified for four consecutive editions of the Junior World Cup, having also featured in 2016, 2022 and 2023. This year’s event is the biggest yet, with 24 teams competing for the first time, split into six groups following a recent draw.
Zimbabwe will line up in Group B alongside giants Argentina, Belgium and Wales.
Zimbabwe U’21 Hockey Squad:
Janelle Wightman, Anatswa Chigudu, Theodora Chingombe, Natalie Chimanda (goalkeepers), Hannah Godfrey, Mutsawashe Musiyiwa, Mufarowashe Matambo, Marilena Fernandes, Khanyisile Mzizi, Jodie Rachel Anderson, Emma Reilly, Ella Allardice, Chidochashe Munyonga, Chelsey Hares, Asante Ali, Amber Tozana, Alea Ashley Musakaruka, Nyasha Bvute, Nyasha Rachel Nyaguze, Panaka Kambadza, Rebeca Winsor, Romy Manditsera, Rumbidzaiishe N. Zimuto, Ruvarashe Mushavi, Shekinar Mushaka, Stephanie Bwerinofa, Tanatswa Mukotekwa, Tanya Changa, Tayla Ellerman, Tinodiwanashe Elijah, and Vimbai Chituku.