The Fiji Pearls caused the biggest upset of the second day of the Netball World Cup 2023 when they beat Zimbabwe 52-48 in their pool games in Cape Town, South Africa.
Zimbabwe is expected to be one of the top 3 teams to go through from Pool A, as they are ranked 13 whilst the Pearls are ranked 19.
The Pearls played smart and controlled netball to outplay their African opponents in general play. Although they lost the first quarter 12-14, they came back stronger in the second and third quarter 14-11 (halftime 26-25), 17-10.
Entering the fourth quarter leading 43-35, the Pearls held on to the lead despite losing the last quarter 9-13. The Pearls played with a purpose, opting for shorter, lower, and cleaner passes.
The combination of Mali Rusivakula and Una Rauluni in the goal circle worked wonders for Fiji, and the Zimbabwean defenders had a hard time controlling their passes. Ana Nauqe also performed well at midcourt with Kelera Nawai-Caucau rallying the defenders to do their best.
The Pearls meet the Australian Diamonds, and this would be an opportunity for the girls to hone their skills against the world’s best.
Again, they would need to believe themselves and give it their best effort until the final whistle.
Meanwhile, to qualify for the next round, the Pearls need Tonga to beat Zimbabwe.
