Africa-Press – South-Africa. Proteas netball captain Bongi Msomi says it’s an honour to be flying the South African flag at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Birmingham.
Msomi was unveiled as Team SA’s flag bearer along with para-swimmer Christian Sadie for Thursday’s Parade of Nations (21:00 SA time).
At the last Commonwealth Games in 2018, Olympic medallist Caster Semenya hoisted the flag at Gold Coast in Australia. And now, four years later, Msomi and Sadie have been given the esteemed honour in Birmingham.
Making her third Commonwealth Games appearance, Msomi will lead the South African netball side as they aim to make history and reach the podium for the first time.
Msomi admitted to feeling emotional after hearing she’ll fly the country’s flag high at Alexander Stadium on Thursday.
“I don’t really share that much emotion, but this one, I really shed a tear or two,” said Msomi.
“It’s really an honour and it’s amazing, I don’t take it lightly. It’s honestly special and to walk with Christian shows that sport is for all of us and in this state.
“We have to thank Sascoc for respecting both of us and giving us the opportunity. These Commonwealth Games is my third one, I get to walk in front and lead South Africa in such an event, it’s just a great honour.”
Inspiring Msomi hopes to lead SA to historic netball podium: ‘We’ll turn the tables around’
The SA netball team features in Group A alongside Australia, Jamaica, Barbados, Wales and Scotland.
Msomi says she is excited to be part of Team South Africa’s contingent this year as the Proteas women look to fight their way out of the semi-finals.
“I played my first games in 2014, and it’s just a massive honour. You get to meet a lot of athletes from different sporting codes. It’s just a vibe, you get to experience a lot of different cultures and meet new people,” said Msomi.
“For me, it’s about feeling like a family away from home and representing your country through different sporting codes but also having a goal, we’re here to give it our all.
“This is a big one and we’re going to go hard for you.”
Saturday’s game against Jamaica starts from 20:00 SA time.
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