HAPPY SHE’S BACK!

NETBALL Jamaica (NJ) President Karen Baugh is confident the senior Sunshine Girls will reclaim the Rhone-Hornsby Trophy, arguing that selectors have assembled a strong and balanced squad for the upcoming Horizon Series against England. The Sunshine Girls and the Roses are to meet in a four-match series, with the first two contests set for Copper Box Arena in England, on November 21 and 22. The final two matches are slated for National Indoor Sports Centre (NISC) in Jamaica on December 5 and 6. England were 2-0 winners of the last Horizon Series after both matches in Jamaica were cancelled due to the passage of deadly Hurricane Melissa in October 2025. In the series prior to that, Jamaica claimed a 2-1 victory after one match was tied. Speaking about the squad for the upcoming clashes, Baugh expressed her full backing of the selection process.

Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard (Photo: Observer file) “I think the selectors did a good job of providing us with a balanced team. I know they had a hard time because we had several girls vying for some positions. But, all in all, I think the team is strong and that they will give a good account of themselves in the series,” Baugh said. The series will mark the return of star shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, who missing due to childbirth. Baugh said Fowler-Nembhard has remained close to the team throughout her three-year absence. “Well, like I’ve been saying, Fowler-Nembhard never left us. Even though she wasn’t available for selection for obvious reasons, she’s always been with her team members. She’s been there in the background supporting them and so we’re really glad to have her back in camp. “She will join the team in England and then come home for the home games. So I’m sure Jamaica is longing to see her play. I haven’t seen her…