The Fiji Baby Pearls concluded their pool matches at the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar with a challenging encounter against the adept South African team, resulting in a tough 35-86 loss. Despite this outcome, the Baby Pearls demonstrated significant resilience throughout the tournament, securing third place in Pool D. They are now set to compete in the ninth to 16th place play-offs, starting with a matchup against host team Gibraltar.
Under the leadership of captain Nina Nakula, the team showcases a blend of local talent, particularly from the Suva and Nasinu Netball Associations. The Baby Pearls began the tournament with a strong start, achieving victories over Trinidad & Tobago with a score of 53-40 and Barbados with 66-34. Their encounter against Malawi was a nail-biter, ending narrowly with a 51-52 loss.
The Baby Pearls’ journey in the World Youth Cup highlights their rigorous preparation and unwavering determination to make a mark for Fiji on the international netball stage. Despite the wide margin in their defeat by South Africa, the team aims to harness the lessons learned and leverage this experience for future growth and competitions.
With the tournament still ongoing, the Fiji Baby Pearls remain focused on enhancing their performance and showcasing their commitment to the sport. Their involvement underscores the increasing prominence of netball in Fiji, serving as an inspiration to budding netball enthusiasts. The event concludes this Sunday, marking a celebration of young talent and sportsmanship.
The Baby Pearls’ continuous efforts in the international arena not only highlight their sportsmanship and expertise but also demonstrate Fiji’s ambition to elevate the profile of netball both regionally and globally. Through their dedication and skill, the Baby Pearls are paving a promising path for the future of netball in Fiji, motivating more young athletes to pursue the sport with enthusiasm.