Their skill, leadership and passion will be a great asset to the squad – Fijian Pearls head coach Vicki Wilson

Fijian Pearls experienced campaigners Taraima Rara Mitchell, Maria Lutua Rusivakula and Matila Waqanidrola have been named in the 25-member squad for the Netball World Cup which will be held in England on July 12-21.

“I am very excited with the selection of the 25-player Pearls squad,”head coach Vicki Wilson said.

“I would expect great gains (in both skill and conditioning) to be made over the next five months.

“Training at high intensity prepares athletes for the rigour of international netball.

“It is wonderful to have three experienced campaigners (Taraima, Maria, and Matila) returning to the squad.

“Their skill, leadership and passion will be a great asset to the squad.

“There are seven overseas based players named Alisi Nawele (UK), Caitlyn Fisher (Australia), Jacinta Lal(New Zealand), Tahisha Hunt (Australia), Ana Cagi Moi (New Zealand), Adi Bolakoro(UK), Grace Korovata(Australia).

“The overseas based players all come with a great wrap from their respective coaches. They are dedicated and skilful and have a high work ethic. “

“These are the qualities we are looking for in players to play for the Pearls,” she said.

Mereani Tuwai, wife of Fiji Airways Fijian 7s player, Seremaia, was one of the new inclusion in the squad and was rated highly by Wilson.

“Mereani is new to the squad and was very impressive on court during the trials,” she said.

“Her lateral work was excellent and did a great job in limiting her opponent’s possession rate.”

“I look forward to working with her and expanding her skill set.”

Squad: 1.Taraima Mitchell 2. Matila Vocea 3. Laisani Waqa 4. Maliana Rusivakula 5.Unaisi Rauluni 6.Lydia Panapasa 7.Alisi Nawele(UK), 8. Maria Rusivakula 9.Caitlyn Fisher ( Australia) 10.Nina Cirikisuva 11.Asilika Sevutia 12.Alisi Galo 13. Verenaisi Sawana 14.Mereani Tuwai 15. Jacinta Lal(New Zealand) 16.Tahisha Hunt (Australia) 17.Ana Cagi Moi (New Zealand) 18. Elenoa Gukirewa 19.Matila Waqanidrola 20.Episake Kahatoka 21.Ema Mualevu 22. Merelita Waqanidrola 23. Adi Bolakoro(UK) 24. Grace Korovata(Australia) 25. Kelera Nawai

-Edited by Osea Bola

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