By Rahim Abdul
Malawi’s national netball team, the Queens, wrapped up their 2026 Commonwealth Games campaign with a hard-fought 50-47 victory over hosts Scotland to secure seventh place in Glasgow.
The win marked a positive finish for the Queens, who bounced back strongly in the 7th/8th classification match after an encouraging tournament. They added Scotland to their list of victories, having also defeated Northern Ireland and Tonga during the Games.
Malawi made an impressive start, dominating the opening quarter to establish a 17-12 lead and setting the pace for the contest.
The Queens maintained their momentum in the second quarter, outscoring Scotland 13-11 to head into the halftime break with a comfortable 30-23 advantage.
Scotland responded with greater intensity after the interval, but Malawi remained composed as both teams finished the third quarter level at 12-12.
The hosts continued to push in the final quarter, yet another evenly contested 12-12 period was enough for Malawi to preserve their three-goal cushion and seal the victory.
Malawi’s commanding first-half display proved decisive, allowing the Queens to withstand Scotland’s late fightback and finish their campaign on a winning note.
The seventh-place finish provides encouragement for the Queens as they continue rebuilding ahead of future international competitions.
Elsewhere, Team Malawi suffered setbacks in judo after Chikondi Kathewera was eliminated in the men’s 60kg Round of 16 by India’s Harsh Singh.
Pemphero Tayali also bowed out of the women’s 52kg Round of 16 following defeat to Marie Rioux of Mauritius.
With the Queens completing their campaign and the two judokas exiting the competition, Team Malawi’s focus now shifts to the remaining events in Glasgow.
Nathan Chisale is scheduled to compete in the men’s 5,000 metres athletics event tomorrow, while Brave Chipokosa will begin his challenge in the men’s 73kg judo category as Malawi continues its quest for success at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
