Parsons wary of Tonga, Samoa at World Cup qualifiers

Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons views hosts Tonga and regional rivals Samoa as the most significant hurdles in their quest to qualify for the Netball World Cup. The team is currently preparing for the qualifiers, scheduled to take place next month in Tonga.

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I think Tonga and Samoa are obviously the teams that are ranked really high, and Tonga has legitimately put themselves on the calendar by being eighth in the world and competing really well at the Commonwealth Games.

Parsons highlighted Tonga's formidable position, noting their eighth-place world ranking and strong recent international showings. "Tonga has legitimately put themselves on the calendar by being eighth in the world and competing really well at the Commonwealth Games," she stated. The coach anticipates Tonga will be particularly challenging due to the home-court advantage.

"With it being a home qualifier for them, I think they’re the biggest threat right now, so definitely Tonga and Samoa," Parsons said. She believes playing in front of their home supporters will amplify Tonga's performance.

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With it being a home qualifier for them, I think they’re the biggest threat right now, so definitely Tonga and Samoa.

Despite identifying Tonga and Samoa as the leading contenders, Parsons stressed that the Fiji Pearls will not underestimate any opponent. She expressed respect for the development efforts of the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea, indicating a comprehensive approach to the competition. The Fiji Pearls are focused on securing one of the available qualification spots for the global tournament.

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The Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea have invested a lot in their development, so we’re very respectful of everybody.