Robert Bailey, Freelance Writer

Carla Williams, one of Jamaica's stars from the 2003 World Netball Championships, is studying in the United States on a basketball scholarship. - Andrew Smith/Photography Editor

Jamaica's chances in this year's World Netball Championships (WNC) could be hampered by the unavailability of a number of overseas-based players.

Marva Bernard, president of the Jamaica Netball Association (JNA), told The Gleaner in a recent interview that she is hoping that the situation can be resolved soon.

"We are negotiating with some of our overseas players, but it all depends on their scholarships. Unfortunately some of these players get scholarships and their schools will not release them to play for their country, and this is a challenge we face. However, we are currently negotiating with the colleges overseas," said Bernard.

Bernard did not name the players involved in the negotiations, but a source close to the JNA, told The Gleaner that the players are Carla Williams, Andrea Watson and Sharon Wiles.

Bernard said: "Nadine Bryan has indicated that she will be coming back. However, we have not seen her yet. The selectors have also invited Kerry-Ann Brown who played on the Under-21 team in 2005 and another player from the Under-21 team but we also have not seen them."

Number three in the world

Ranked number three in the world, Jamaica will face major competition from hosts and world number one New Zealand and world number two Australia at the tournament. New Zealand will host the tournament in November.

The Connie Francis coached team which went down 2-0 in two recent 'Test' series to both Australia and New Zealand last month, will now turn their attention to a three-match home series against number four ranked England next month. This will be their last tournament before the World Championships.