The Durban ICC was indeed electrified with spectators, making the 2025 Telkom Netball League (TNL) Final a memorable one.
The Golden Fireballs secured the championship title with a convincing 47-40 victory. The Fireballs showcased their dominance throughout the 2025 season, finishing with a perfect record and no losses. Guided by coaches Dr. Elsje Jordaan and Bongi Msomi, their consistency and determination were key. The players’ mutual respect and strong chemistry contributed significantly to their success.
The match was intense, with both teams vying for dominance. The Crinums led 13-11 after the first quarter, but the Fireballs fought back to level the score at 23-23 by halftime. The Fireballs took control in the third quarter, leading 34-30, and maintained their momentum in the final quarter despite a strong effort from the Crinums. A red card for the Crinums’ Refiloe Nketsa and Ane Retief, further impacted their chances, ultimately falling short.
“It’s been a 12-player effort, and to see how everybody contributed to every game, it’s just massive,” said Dr. Jordaan. “We are very grateful for the seamless collaboration between the team management, including myself, Bongi, Tass, and Amy, which contributed to a truly fantastic season.”
KD STARS PROMOTED TO DIVISION 1
The Kingdom Stars dominated the Baobabs in a repeat of last year’s Telkom Netball League (TNL) promotion/relegation match, thrashing them 60-42. This convincing win secures Kingdom Stars’ spot in Division 1, showcasing their strength and determination. The Baobabs’ towering Goal Shooter, Muhluri Hlatshwayo, led the team to an early 14-10 lead in the first quarter. However, Baobabs’ inconsistent play allowed the Stars to dominate the second quarter, taking control 25-20.
The KwaZulu-Natal team, uplifted by their victory over the Tornados in the group finals, entered the game with renewed energy. Goal Shooter Sbonga Mdletshe excelled in the quarter, consistently converting shots, while her opponent struggled to find rhythm.
Nompumelelo Mthembu’s side maintained their dominance, leading 48-29 at the end of the third quarter. The final quarter sealed Emily Mathosa’s team’s fate, a dreaded demotion to Division 2 in the 2026 Season.
TNL INDIVIDUAL AWARDS:
Best Shooter – Owethu Ngubane (Fireballs)
Best Centre – Refiloe Nketsa (Crinums)
Best Defender – Jamie van Wyk (Jaguars)
Player of the Tournament – Tarle Mathe (Fireballs)
Sunday, 20 July 2025 Results:
13:00 – Relegation Match: Baobabs 42 – 60 Kingdom Stars
15:00 – Final D1: Golden Fireballs 47 – 40 Crinums
