The Zimbabwe women’s Under-21 hockey squad has officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming 2025 Fédération International de Hockey (FIH) Junior Women’s World Cup in Santiago, Chile, following a crucial last-minute financial intervention by the government.

The Hockey Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) has announced that a potential withdrawal, which had been under consideration due to a severe lack of funds for logistical support, has been averted after the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts, and Culture stepped in with the necessary funding.

“HAZ is delighted to confirm that the Zimbabwe Under-21 women’s hockey team will be participating in the upcoming FIH Junior World Cup.

“This exciting development follows the valued intervention and support of the Ministry of Sport, Arts, Recreation, and Culture,” read a statement from the association.

The support ensures that the nation’s young women will have the opportunity to compete on the global stage.

The tournament is scheduled to run from December 1st to the 13th in Santiago, Chile.

HAZ further confirmed that the team’s preparations will now continue uninterrupted.

The squad has been holding training camps in both Harare and Bulawayo, USA-based players expected to join the team soon.