GABORONE, July 8 (Xinhua) -- The 2017 Netball World Youth Cup (NWYC) started on Saturday in Botswana, highlighted by a glittering opening ceremony and a big win by the home side.
The much anticipated under-21 competition got the ball rolling in the early hours of Saturday and was packed with action throughout the day, only breaking for the official opening ceremony late Saturday afternoon.
Botswana President Seretse Khama Ian Khama officially opened the tournament that has brought together 20 of the best netball teams from around the world.
When speaking to mark the official opening of the event, Khama said he trusted that all preparations have been made to ensure the visitors enjoyable stay and a successful hosting of a memorable tournament which will hopefully add to the noble efforts of the International Netball Federation (INF) of developing the sporting code throughout the world.
Khama added that the Botswana government is committed to the development of the nation through sports, and that the under-21 World Cup will serve as a springboard to push the development of netball and sport in Botswana to another level.
The glittering opening ceremony showcased Botswana's cultural prowess of dance and song, with an added touch of modern choreography, while all visiting teams were also given a chance to showcase their cultures during teams' parade.
Meanwhile the home side started their quest in the competition with a convincing 72-26 win over Malaysia in Pool C late Saturday night.
With a capacity crowd at the University of Botswana Indoor Sports Arena rallying behind them, Botswana eased away their fumbles in the opening few minutes to dominate their opponents throughout the match.
They took the lead at the end of the first quarter and opened an unassailable margin leading 32-16 at the interval.
In other games played earlier, England beat Wales 69-23 in Pool D while in Pool B Australia were 86-33 victorious over Zimbabwe.
Botswana will play their second match against Cook Islands on Sunday afternoon.