Netball: Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls Suffer Blow as Captain Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard Withdraws from England Series
Breaking News
Kingston, Jamaica – In a significant blow to Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls, captain and leading goal shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard has been withdrawn from the Horizon Series against England on medical advice, announced by Netball Jamaica.
Captain Withdrawn from Series
Fowler-Nembhard, widely regarded as one of the top players in international netball, will be replaced by Romelda Aiken-George, who will join the team scheduled to head to England on Friday.
Netball Jamaica’s Priority
"Netball Jamaica is focused on her health and well-being and will provide updates as necessary regarding her condition," said Tricia Robinson, president of Netball Jamaica.
Head Coach’s Statement
Head coach Sasher-Gaye Henry expressed disappointment over the absence of the team’s captain but affirmed their support for Fowler-Nembhard’s recovery. "Jhaniele is the captain and a very important player for Jamaica, so we are quite disappointed that she will not be able to participate in the Horizon Series. However, our priority at this time is her health, and we are committed to supporting our players every step of the way," said Henry. Despite the setback, Henry remains confident in the depth of the squad as they prepare for their opening match in Manchester on November 16.
A Standout in International Netball
Fowler-Nembhard has been a standout in international netball and recently finished her season in Australia’s Suncorp Super Netball League as the competition’s top scorer.
Horizon Series Details
The Horizon Series, a new annual fixture, will span the next four years with two matches hosted in each country. This year’s return matches will be played in Kingston on November 25 and 26 at the National Indoor Sports Centre. England, ranked second globally, enters the series with momentum following their recent Taini Jamison Trophy win in New Zealand, while Jamaica, ranked fourth, will compete for the first time since their fifth-place finish at the 2023 Fast5 World Series.
Jamaica Squad for the England Series
Romelda Aiken-George, Shanice Beckford, Mischa Creary, Rhea Dixon, Abigaile Sutherland, Khadija Williams, Crystal Williams, Theresa Beckford, Shamera Sterling-Humphrey, Kadie-Ann Dehaney, Latanya Wilson, Jody-Ann Ward.
Conclusion
The Sunshine Girls will face a strong England side with recent form favoring the hosts, having won six of their last eight encounters. Netball Jamaica’s priority is the health and well-being of their players, and they will provide updates on Fowler-Nembhard’s condition as necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard withdrawn from the Horizon Series?
A: Fowler-Nembhard was withdrawn on medical advice.
Q: Who will replace Fowler-Nembhard in the team?
A: Romelda Aiken-George will replace Fowler-Nembhard in the team.
Q: What is the priority for Netball Jamaica?
A: Netball Jamaica’s priority is the health and well-being of their players.
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