Selection Still Open For World Cup: Rokoura
The Netball Fiji high performance unit is always open to players along with selection into the national side, says head coach Unaisi Rokoura.
This was after the Fiji Pearls qualified last weekend for next year’s World Cup in Cape Town, South Africa which will be held from July 28 to August 6.
Fiji finished second behind the unbeaten Tonga Tala during the recent Vodafone Oceania Netball World Cup qualifier.
“We are going back now, sit and map out plan for Cape Town, then heading off to our next training and prepare for the World Cup next year,” Rokoura said.
“The high performance of Netball Fiji is always open once the competition starts, if they are seen they will be invited in. It’s open.”
Despite losing 59-29 to Tonga in their second game, the Pearls proved they are a better side and beat Samoa and Cook Islands, 45-43 and 51-34, respectively.
“We had only four months to get the team together and prepare for the qualifiers.
“We came in with one goal; that is to retain possession and work defensively.”
While some seasoned players like Maria Lutua-Rusivakula, Nina Cirikikisuva and Afa Rusivakula were questioned for being named in the squad, Rokoura said their experience was needed on the side.
“These two sisters (Afa and Maliana) have something unique about them; they have been playing together for a long time.
“Afa a very experienced player, her knowledge around the circle is amazing.
“As long as they can do the work on the court, that’s the most important thing. Coming into qualifier, you cannot buy experience.
“For this past three months, that short period of time this team has managed to blend experience and the youth.
“It seems like they have been playing for a long time.”
“I know most experience players would want to be part of the road to Cape Town.”
“Alisi Naqiri, I won’t rule her out. It was just a hard fall, and one of those days. She is my captain Courageous. She led the team really well.”
Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
