Kingdom Stars retain TNL Division 2 Championship

An electrifying day of netball took place at the Durban ICC, where passionate fans gathered to support their teams in the 2025 Telkom Netball League (TNL) bronze medallists and the Division 2 Final.

The Kingdom Stars successfully defended their title, winning the championship match against the Tornados 43-33. The 10-goal margin showcased the team's hard work and chemistry, as they celebrated their victory on home soil. Stars players Nozipho Ntshangase and Thulisile Maduna played crucial roles, securing turnovers and disrupting the Tornados' rhythm. The Tornados struggled to find their form, dealing with a high penalty count and low goal shooting percentage.

Stars Coach Nompumelelo Mthembu reacted: "I'm overwhelmed with happiness for the team. Our goal was to retain the title and we’re thrilled to have achieved it. The crowd's support was a tremendous boost."

Looking ahead, the Stars will face the Baobabs in a promotion/relegation match on Sunday at 3pm.

The Jaguars secured third place with a thrilling 67-59 win over the Stings. Despite a strong start from both teams, the Jaguars' shooting circle, led by Kamogelo Maseko (Player of the Match) and Ine-Mari Venter, was phenomenal. The Jaguars' defence also played a crucial role, shutting down the Stings' momentum in the second half.

The stats backed up the Jaguars' dominance, with 22 gains from pressure and impressive shooting. Maseko's two super shots provided a crucial four-point boost.

Coach Rozanne Matthyse said in her post-match comments: "It's been a journey for us. We started slow but I think we did well to bounce back. We knew not making it to the finals was part of the process and securing bronze was vital for us. My team did an amazing job and I'm so proud of them. I'm proud to be a Jaguar and proud to coach this incredible unit."

Tshukudu etched their name in the TNL history books by reaching the semi-finals in just their second season. They secured the bronze medal with a 54-44 win over the Mpumalanga Sunbirds, led by coach Faith Motau. The North West Province team demonstrated remarkable growth and determination, which paid off on the court.

The match was a thrilling encounter, with both teams committing turnovers. However, Tshukudu's clinical start and execution in the final third proved decisive. Their long balls and space-clearing runs were crucial to their victory. Tshukudu's shooting percentage was an impressive 96%, although they incurred a high penalty rate due to Sunbirds' physical defence.

A visibly relieved and proud coach Vivian Foko shared her thoughts on the team's achievement: "I am so happy with how we performed, especially considering the journey we have been on. My team listened to me and respected my guidance, which was crucial to our success. Now, looking ahead to next season, I want to come back even stronger and make our way to Section A."

TNL D2 INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Best Shooter – Rehana Noah (Tornados)

Best Centre – Johanne Meyer (Tshukudu)

Best Defender – Nozipho Ntshangase (Kingdom Stars)

Player of the Tournament – Thulisile Maduna (Kingdom Stars)

Results

10am – Play-off D2 Pos. 5/6: Sonoblomo 44-48 Kingdom Queens

12pm – Play-off D1 Pos. 5/6: Flames 56-54 Aloes

2pm – Play-off D2 Pos. 3/4: Sunbirds 44-54 Tshukudu

4pm – Play-off D1 Pos. 3/4: Stings 59-67 Jaguars

6pm – Final D2: Tornados 33-43 Kingdom Stars

Fixtures

1pm – Relegation Match: Baobabs v Kingdom Stars

3pm – Final D1: Golden Fireballs v Crinums