Photo credit: Takumi Photography
Hong Kong
INF World Ranking: 28th
As anticipation for the 2019 Four Nations Tournament reaches fever pitch, there is a sense that this year could be different for hosts Hong Kong.
Their record in the tournament reads as follows: 1st-placed in 2012, 2nd-placed in 2013 and 2014, 1st-placed in 2015 and 2nd-placed in 2017 and 2018 (tournament not held in 2016).
Past results certainly trend towards a certain Hong Kong victory and with the scars of their recent Asian Netball Championships heartbreak still lingering, the home side will approach this weekend all cylinders firing.
Despite their cheery demeanour, there was no mistaking a steely edge to Hong Kong's intentions.
"We’ve played against Thailand and Malaysia before, though we’ve yet to play against Gibraltar,” said Michelle Arkell, who takes over co-captaincy from veteran Connie Wong.
“We are the team to beat and our aim this tournament is to play our game and force other teams to play our way, rather than look at what they can do.”
Photo credit: Takumi Photography
Her fellow co-captain Kate Jolly shared similar sentiments, believing that a Cup win for Hong Kong would leave a lasting impression on the many aspiring young netballers in attendance.
"We’re not going to reveal too much about our weaknesses, but I’d say one of our strengths is our team culture and team spirit - something that anyone who’s come up against us will acknowledge,” she remarked.
"There are many young netballers who are keen to come out and watch us play, so to be able to do well here in front of them and really encourage them to continue with their netball would be fantastic!"