Fiji Pearls Netball Squad to Remain Intact Amidst Overseas Player Trials

Fiji Pearls netball coach Michelle Parsons has confirmed that the team's core group of 22 players will remain intact as they prepare for upcoming qualifiers. This decision comes despite an anticipated influx of overseas-based talent currently undergoing trials.

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I’m going to keep the core 22, but there might be some additions to that group because we’ve got a lot of international players.

Parsons emphasized that the international players are expected to enhance the squad rather than force existing players out of contention. "I’m going to keep the core 22, but there might be some additions to that group because we’ve got a lot of international players," she said.

The coach highlighted the significant experience these overseas players bring, noting that some have previously represented the Pearls, while others are new to the national setup. Many are arriving directly from professional and state-level competitions, ensuring they are match-ready and possess hardened conditioning.

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These players have come with hardened conditioning and they come straight out of competition. So they’re also game ready.

Despite the increased competition for places, Parsons stressed the importance of the current squad. "Those 22 will continue to train with me. None of them will be removed or dropped from the squad unless injury rules them out. It’s actually adding to that group," she stated. The Fiji Pearls are continuing their preparations with the goal of qualifying for the next stage.

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Those 22 will continue to train with me. None of them will be removed or dropped from the squad unless injury rules them out. It’s actually adding to that group.