It is here!!!  The Netball World Cup – Liverpool 2019.  With tickets in hand – we are off to see the world’s best netballers compete for the ultimate title – World Champions.  As Netball continues to grow the standard the this years competition is fierce!

1. Shamera Sterling – Jamaica

After helping Jamaica win bronze in the Commonwealth games after a nail-biting semi-final with England – Sterling was snapped up by Loughborough Lightning for the VNSL.  After just one season – the world could see her potential and she jumped on a flights to Australia to start for the Adelaide Thunderbirds this season.  Her flair and unbelievable interceptions have made her a player to watch – becoming a crowd favourite

Her netball debut is sure to be full of tips, flying interceptions and hustle in the circle – she will get the crowd on their feet and lift her team.

 

2. Shaunagh Craig – Northern Ireland

After playing for TEAM Bath in the VNSL and coming through the English Performance PAthway at U17, U19 and U21 – Shaunagh had taken a break from netball for a couple of years to travel in New Zealand – but when the opportunity came to play at this year’s World Cup – Shaunagh was an obvious choice for Dan Ryan given her experience and understanding of the game.  At 6ft 2 – Craig dominates the circle – using her height and strength to create and protect space.  Both of Shaunagh’s parents played basketball for Northern Ireland and so she will be bringing a bit of basketball style and flair to her role in the circle.

3. Sarah Klau – Australia

Not many players get their International debut at the World Cup – but Klau’s season with the Swifts put her firmly on the World Cup list as her dominance in Suncorp could not be ignored.  Klau has the ability to shut down shooters and take them out of the game – her relentlessness in the circle wears them down and she is one of the best rebounders to take to the court.  Considering her age – she reads the game so well and can change up her game to close down a variety of shooting styles – she looks so comfortable on the court.

 

4. Karin Berger – New Zealand

Karin is a strong and versatile player – with the ability to cover all defensive positions.  She has the ability to find an interception just when herr team needs it.  England Roses fans may recognise her from the Quad Series when she was sent off against England – her strong and relentless defending can sometimes get her a lot of whistle from the umpires – but she makes up for it in intercepts.  As well as working to limit the attackers – Berger is strong coming through the court with great distribution.

 

5. Fran Williams – England

Fran has been in the England Performance Pathway since a youngster – captaining the U21 Squad.  It has been her fantastic performances for Wasps which have cemented her place in the England Roses.  Fran is able to win ball and also bring it through the court with a relentless work rate.  Working well with an experienced Hannah Knight – Fran has been able to own the GD bib – working hard to earn her place in the World Cup Roses Squad.

6. Sigi Burger – South Africa

Sigi has been playing in the VNSL for the past two season for Surrey Storm – a fan favourite for both her fun persona and her regularly shooting over 90% throughout the season.  Sigi was not initially included in the Wold Cup 2019 squad for the Proteas – but due to an injury she has now joined the squad.  Her unorthodox style makes it difficult for defenders to contain her and know what she is going to do next – and her shooting accuracy speaks for itself.  After her best season so far with Storm – she is ready to shine as a Protea.

7. The Zimbabwe National Netball 

The Zimbabwe team made history qualifiying for the VNWC Finals for the first time.  They will bring speed, athleticism and agility to the court – with their fast paced style.  With the rise of the African nations over the past few years with Malawi and Uganda and players enjoying the opportunities to play in the UK and Australia – this is the chance for them to showcase their talent and how far they have come.  Severn Stars defenderAdelaide Muskwe will using her experience as she and her team take on the best nations in with World.  They will also be bringing their amazing fans who really brought the stadium to life in their first match!