Nkosenhle Sibisi

South Africa’s Karla Pretorius was named the “Player of the Tournament” for this year’s Netball World Cup. Pretorius received her award at the Netball World Cup 2019 medal ceremony in Liverpool, England. 

The Proteas had shown their very best when they made it to the semi-finals of the World Cup. However, they lost to Australia in the semi-finals on Saturday. 

Pretorius won the award after the South African Erin Burger won it at the 2011 Netball World Cup in Singapore. 

Pretorius said that she is happy to be able to win this award, following in the footsteps of Burger, whom she calls her inspiration.

 “When Erin won eight years ago, it inspired me.  Me winning this award shows that South Africa have the talent, players, and team to go to the top. I am excited about the future of the Proteas,” said Pretorius.

The Proteas showed a very good form when they also beat Jamaica, a team ranked 3rd in the world rankings.  

“I feel very honoured to have been named the best player of the World Cup. You are only as good as those around you and the team did so well at this World Cup, and even though we won’t return home with a medal. I know that we all put our hearts and souls into every game in Liverpool and can hold our heads high,” added Pretorius. 

Earlier this year South Africa was announced as the official hosts of the 2023 Netball World Cup. This will be the first Netball World Cup to be held on the African continent, the tournament will take place in Cape Town, Western Cape. 

Pictures: Reg Caldecott (Gallo Images)