Former Fiji Pearls player Alisi Nawele expressed her excitement about being part of the British Army’s invitational netball team that played against the Fiji Pearls at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, where her current team faced their Fijian counterparts in a friendly match. The Pearls emerged victorious with a score of 48-36.
Nawele, who has been serving in the British Army since 2003, shared that it was a special opportunity for her to return to her home country alongside her teammates. “To be honest, we are really glad to have this opportunity to come back home. I don’t think the British Army netball team has ever been home (Fiji),” she noted, comparing their visit to that of the British Army rugby team, which played against the Republic of Fiji Military Forces earlier in July.
The match allowed Nawele and her fellow Fijians in the British Army team—including Adi Vakaoca Bolakoro and assistant manager Adi Maria Matau—to reconnect with their roots while participating in a friendly competition. Nawele highlighted the privilege of bringing her team to Fiji and emphasized the camaraderie shared between both sides during the match.
Fiji Pearls team manager Jofiliti Veikoso praised the squad’s ability to quickly gel, aided by young players from the Baby Pearls under-21 team who recently competed at the 2025 World Netball Youth Cup. This connection between experienced players and young talent exemplifies the ongoing growth and potential of netball in Fiji.
As the Fiji Pearls gear up for the upcoming PacificAus Sports Netball Series, they carry a blend of seasoned expertise and promising newcomers. The match against the British Army served as a reminder of the strong spirit and dedication present in Fijian netball, encouraging optimism for their future successes on the international stage. This unique gathering showcased not only sporting talent but also the deep-rooted connections that bind players of different backgrounds and experiences.