Ilhas Cook, Cook Island News, Inglês

Cook Islands U21 netball team has been placed in Pool A for the upcoming U21 Netball World Cup, set to face off against some of the world’s most formidable teams.

Among their opponents is the powerhouse and champions of the last World Youth Cup New Zealand, alongside Gibraltar, Malaysia, and Zambia.

Following a successful campaign in the Oceania qualifiers, where they secured a top-three finish, the Cook Islands are determined to carry their momentum forward, aiming for a top 10 finish on the global stage.

Facing New Zealand will be a stern test for the Cook Islands, as they confront the current 1^st placed nation in U21 World netball. However, the team is not backing down. Matches against Gibraltar, Malaysia, and Zambia provide opportunities to showcase their growth and secure crucial wins. With a blend of experienced players and fresh talent, the Cook Islands are ready to leave their mark on the World Cup.

The Cook Islands aren’t the only Oceania nation looking to shine. Samoa, drawn in Pool B, faces an equally daunting task with Australia currently placed 2^nd in the World, Scotland, Singapore, and Northern Ireland. Tonga, placed in Pool C, will contend with England currently placed 3^rd, Jamaica, Wales, and Sri Lanka, while Fiji, placed 4^th in the world, finds itself in Pool D, where South Africa and Malawi pose significant challenges, along with Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago.

Each of these Oceania teams brings its unique strengths to the competition, and their performances will be closely watched as they seek to upset higher-ranked opponents and secure strong finishes.

For the Cook Islands, the journey to the World Cup has already been evidence of their dedication and resilience.

Finishing in the top three during the Oceania qualifiers was a significant achievement, and now, they look to translate that success onto the world stage. The team is focused on refining their strategies and building cohesion to face the stiff competition ahead.