SVG and Barbados clash in World Cup preparation

AN 18 MEMBER contingent has been selected by the St.Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association that will engage the Barbados senior Bajan Gems in three friendly matches from July 7-11.

These games will benefit both countries as the Bajan Gems are preparing for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham from July 28– August 8, 2022; and the Netball World Cup qualifiers in Jamaica in October 2022; where both countries will be competing for a place at the 2023 the World Cup Championships in South Africa.

The 15 players who have been selected from the current training squad are: Mary-Ann Frederick, Shellisa Davis, Kimesha Antoine, Zanelle James, Shanice Daniel, Nerissa Delpesche, Ruthann Williams, Jeneise Lowe, Rosannia Stephens, Kelisha Barbour, Joseann Antoine, Jo Maria Quashie,Vasha Adams, Kaywanna Charles, and Shamara Warner; with Joan Foster-Baynes as manager; Natasha Baptiste as coach, and Javed Marksman the Physiotherapist.

“It is a win-win situation for both teams because we will benefit from it as well going into training for the World Cup qualifiers”, Vashta Adams told SEARCHLIGHT.

“ Both teams will be benefiting from these warm up games in Barbados.”

Looking at the three matches coming up against the Bajan Gems Adams pointed out, “I can guarantee you that every night would be tough competition. They won’t be easy, we won’t be easy, and I know they will not be easing up as well. But, it’s for the benefit of both teams. They’re going into the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and we are in the preparation stage for the World Cup Qualifiers.”

Upon the return to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, players will continue their training for possible selection to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines senior team for the Netball World Cup Qualifiers.

Adams said many persons have been turning out to train for the national team and, “everybody is very enthusiastic about making the team.We have seen some good netballers coming out to training because the World Cup Qualifiers is our biggest stage of play, with bigger and better teams participating in this tournament trying to make the World Cup so we want to get the best out of St.Vincent (and the Grenadines).”