THE two upcoming invitational matches against the Australian under-21 teams will be a crucial step in deciding which Fiji Baby Pearls will make the final squad for the Netball World Youth Cup.
Head coach Simone Nalatu said the atmosphere has been positive since the team regrouped this week in Suva.
Players from Australia and New Zealand have joined the local squad to train and build connections ahead of the tournament starting July 7 at Vodafone Arena.
“The atmosphere has been great. The local girls have done a wonderful job welcoming our overseas-based players in,” Nalatu said.
“The overseas based have all worked hard at forming connections within the team. I have been very pleased with how it has been going.”
The matches against the Blaze Netball under-21 side and the New South Wales Fijian under-21 team will test the Baby Pearls’ game plans and combinations before they head to Gibraltar in September.
“The matches provide us with the opportunity to test our game strategy against other opposition,” she said.
“Each player will be given the opportunity to put their best foot forward.”
The 27-member extended squad will be split into two teams, Kacau and Kikau, for the series.
Nalatu said the games will help coaches see which players can stay consistent and step up under pressure.
“The matches are a critical last step of our selection before the World Youth Cup,” she said.
“It gives me an indication of what players can back up and what players will stand up under pressure.”
Sessions focus on fitness, unit work for all positions, and building trust on and off the court.
Coaches hope the final squad will be ready to represent Fiji proudly on the world stage.
Meanwhile the tournament will run from June 7-11.
