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Defending champs Crinums to face Baby Proteas first─── MORGAN PIEK 13:31 Tue, 22 Apr 2025
The Free State Crinums will be tested to the max this Saturday as they kick off their Telkom Netball League title defence.
They’ll take on the Spar Baby Proteas at Sun City in what promises to be a high-intensity opening clash, with both teams eager to make a statement from the get-go.
The Baby Proteas are making their debut in South Africa’s premier netball competition as part of their preparations for the 2025 Junior Netball World Cup in Gibraltar.
Refiloe Nketsa. Photo: NSA
The tournament opener will see the Mpumalanga Sunbirds face off against Free State Sonoblomo earlier in the day.
For the defending champions, a strong and fast start is non-negotiable, especially with a big showdown against the Gauteng Jaguars looming on Monday.
Last week, Refiloe Nketsa – a likely candidate for captain – told OFM Sport that the Crinums are well aware of the target on their backs, but she’s confident they have what it takes to go all the way again.
“For many of the new players, this will be a whole new experience,” Nketsa said. “But I always say – if you’re new, you’re often more eager to learn, to showcase your talent, and to embrace the journey.
“That said, we’ve got loads of experience in the squad too. The players are committed, willing to work hard, show up for one another, and give their best for the Crinums. We’re all focused on keeping the trophy at home.”
Saturday’s action-packed fixtures at Sun City will also feature the Tornadoes against the Northern Cape Diamonds, while host province North West Flames take on the Zambezi Eagles from Zimbabwe.
Karla Victor of the Free State will represent the Baby Proteas this year. Photo: NSA
Saturday’s fixtures:
Saturday, 26 April
- 07:00 – Sunbirds vs Sonoblomo
- 09:00 – Crinums vs Baby Proteas
- 11:00 – Tornadoes vs Diamonds
- 13:00 – Flames vs Zambezi Eagles
- 15:00 – Fireballs vs Baobabs
- 17:00 – KD Stars vs KD Queens
- 19:00 – Stings vs Aloes
Sunday, 27 April
- 08:00 – Fireballs vs Zambezi Eagles
- 10:00 – Baobabs vs Crinums
- 08:00 – Tornadoes vs Diamonds
- 10:00 – Diamonds vs KD Stars
- 12:00 – Jaguars vs Flames
- 14:00 – Tshukudu vs Lilies
- 16:00 – Comets vs Sonoblomo
- 18:00 – Baobabs vs Stings
- 18:00 – Baby Proteas vs Fireballs
Monday, 28 April
- 08:00 – Lilies vs Diamonds
- 10:00 – Zambezi Eagles vs Baobabs
- 12:00 – KD Queens vs Sonoblomo
- 14:00 – Sunbirds vs Tornadoes
- 16:00 – Baby Proteas vs Aloes
- 18:00 – Fireballs vs Stings
- 16:00 – Comets vs KD Stars
- 18:00 – Opening Ceremony
- 20:00 – Crinums vs Jaguars
