Pressure on Proteas
Captain Amanda Mynhardt's South African women's netball team are feeling the pressure ahead of Friday's first test against Jamaica in Kingston, Jamaica.
"Not knowing what to expect from the young, new Jamaican 'Sunshine Girls' is why there is so much anticipation amongst the Protea camp," said Mynhardt after Wednesday's practice session.
"However we have settled nicely into Kingston, and are enjoying the warmer weather and look forward to our warm-up game tomorrow (Thursday) against the Jamaican under21 side."
South Africa, who impressed at last year's World Netball Championships in Singapore, where they were placed fifth, are keen to test their progress against the favoured hometown team as they start their preparation for next year's Commonwealth Games.
"Playing Jamaica is a fantastic challenge and our girls and management staff are excited at the opportunity to see how we perform against a team that, in my opinion, is undoubtedly one of the best sides in the world," said Coach Elize Kotze.
"The girls love the added pressure and stimulation of playing one of the world's top teams," said Kotze.
"We know we are one of the best in the world and we feel the time has come for us to challenge a top four spot on the world rankings.
"We are not yet where we want to be, but after the impressive performance in Singapore last year there is no doubt that we have the capabilities of cracking a top four spot."
