Fijian Pearls defender Merelita Waqanidrola wants to improve certain areas of her game before the Netball World Cup in Liverpool, England on July 12-21.

Winning and maintaining possession in defence is one area the lanky defender wants to focus on.

The 21-year-old is one upcoming talent in the team and will likely play a prominent role in London, given her defensive prowess and versatility.

She is comfortable playing either at goalkeeper or goal defence, which proved an asset for coach Vicki Wilson at the recent Arafura Games.

With the final squad to be announced next Sunday, the Vunibau, Serua native is looking forward to an exciting build-up which includes a three-week training camp in Brisbane, Australia next month.

“If I get in, it will be my first World Cup and I’m looking forward to our three weeks training camp in Brisbane,” Waqanidrola said.

“I have a lot of support from my family, especially my aunt Matila who’s been very supportive and keeps on reminding me to always pray before my games and always work hard.

“My family always tells me to never give up and keep on improving my skills.”

Waqanidrola said that competition at the World Cup will be of an elite level and she will need to match that intensity.

“During the Arafura Games I lost many balls and I know the game against Silver Ferns and at the World Cup I can’t afford to do that,” she said.

Waqanidrola follows the footsteps of her aunt and Fijian Pearls captain Matila.

The Fijians are grouped in Pool C alongside Jamaica, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago.

Edited by Sheldon Chanel

Feedback: anasilinir@fijisun.com.fj