The Proteas will be up against their fierce rivals, Malawi, on Thursday in the semi-finals as they seek to continue their title defence.

The Proteas made their intentions clear from the opening whistle, setting the pace and putting Namibia under pressure with sharp passing, disciplined movement and relentless work rate.

Proteas against Botswana earlier in the tournament - Netball SA

Head coach Jenny van Dyk made a few adjustments to her starting seven following Tuesday’s win over Botswana, but the changes did little to disrupt South Africa’s rhythm.

The Proteas quickly established control and opened up an eight-goal advantage by the end of the first quarter, leading 16-8.

South Africa continued to turn the screw in the second quarter. They dictated the tempo, moved the ball with purpose and forced Namibia to chase the game. The Proteas added another 17 goals to their tally while restricting their opponents to eight, taking a healthy 33-16 lead into half-time.

Karla Victor - Netball SA

Van Dyk used the third quarter to give some of her players valuable court time, introducing Owethu Ngubane, Nozipho Ntshangase and Tinita van Dyk as she rotated her squad.

Namibia, however, refused to simply roll over.

The Desert Roses came out with renewed energy after the break, competing fiercely for every loose ball and making South Africa work considerably harder for their opportunities. Namibia edged the third quarter 10-8, although the Proteas still held a comfortable 41-26 advantage heading into the final period.

South Africa regained their composure in the fourth quarter and closed out the contest professionally.

The statement released by Africa Netball on Thursday

Van Dyk continued to rotate her players, with Nonsikelelo Mazibuko introduced into the shooting circle. She made her opportunities count as the Proteas regained their attacking fluency and finished the job with a 55-33 victory.

The result sends South Africa into the semi-finals, where they will face Malawi on Thursday afternoon.

With the knockout stages now upon them, the Proteas will know that the intensity is set to rise, but their performances in the group phase have provided plenty of encouragement as they chase continental honours.

Africa Netball is yet to confirmed when the final between South Africa and the She-Cranes of Uganda will take place.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport