The Cook Islands remains in the running for a place in the Netball World Youth Cup 2025, despite suffering a defeat to Tonga on the second day of the World Youth Cup Qualifier Oceania at the National Sports Arena in Nikao.
After a successful match against Papua New Guinea, where they won 63-45, the Cook Islands faced Tonga in their quest for a top-three finish, which is necessary to qualify for the World Cup. The match against Tonga was competitive, but the Cook Islands ultimately lost 66-44.
In another matchup, the Fiji Baby Pearls encountered difficulties in their first game against a strong Tifa Moana Samoa under 21 team, falling short with a score of 51-32.
Looking ahead, the Fiji Baby Pearls, under the guidance of coach Simone Nalatu, are set to compete again today against Tonga Tala at 5:15 PM.