Photo credit: Netball Singapore
Thailand
INF World Ranking: 34th
One of three Asian sides set to take the court in the 2019 Four Nations, Thailand have only recently made their entry at number 34 in the INFA World Rankings.
Although this makes them the lowest-ranked team on paper, they have shown a considerable degree of attacking ability; teams should be wary of their 62-27 defeat of Japan and 70-34 victory over Brunei in the recent Asia Netball World Cup Qualifiers.
In addition, they registered a 86-3 trouncing of the Philippines in the 2017 SEA Games – a competition in which they are 3-time Bronze medallists.
Having recently fallen to Hong Kong in the 2018 Asian Netball Championship, Thailand will look to enact a measure of revenge at Kowloon Park Sports Centre.
“We’re really looking forward to play against Hong Kong, Malaysia and Gibraltar and hope to gain as much exposure as we can,” remarked Chng Li Li, Thailand Netball coach.
“They are very tall sides with good athletic ability and a lot more experience under their belt compared to us.”
Photo credit: redsports.sg
Chng believes that despite a number of disadvantages, her charges have the fight and willpower to put in a good performance.
“Our players are small in stature, rarely get the chance to play in competitions like the Four Nations and lack a organised club structure in Thailand to be able to train regularly,” she said.
“However, we are fighters. Above all, we love netball and our country and will go all out once we step on the court.”
The value of winning the Cup in terms of improving the infrastructure of Thai netball, is something that the Singaporean is aware of.
“Bringing the Cup home would mean a lot to us. We want to do our country proud and same time, attract funding and support to help the development of netball in Thailand.” she added.