Hazel Nali completes knee rehab to return to Zambia

Hazel Nali poses for a photo in a hospital bed after undergoing knee surgery in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Picture via FB/Hazel Nali)

Copper Queens first choice goalkeeper Hazel Nali has completed her two and a half months of physiotherapy and rehabilitation at St. George’s Hospital in Christchurch, New Zealand, following an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction of her left knee.

Both her surgeon, Andrew Vincent, and Physiotherapist Emma Beattie, said they are happy with the progress she continues to make, now that Hazel has restored the basic range of movement and strength measures of her knee.

The surgeon and physiotherapist have outlined the next stages of Nali’s rehabilitation.

Her next step is to strengthen and condition her knee, which should take three to four months and be something they are comfortable with. A qualified therapist in Zambia can provide this.

Hazel Nali during the women's international friendly match between Republic of Ireland and Zambia at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. (Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images) — Hazel Nali during the women’s international friendly match between Republic of Ireland and Zambia at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. (Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

Nali will then still have to complete two more stages of ACL rehabilitation, which includes plyometrics and agility work.

Zambia High Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand Dr Elias Munshya said Zambians are looking forward to watching Ms. Nali is playing football once her recovery is complete.