Fiji's build-up to the 2015 Netball World Cup has suffered a blow, with Malawi pulling out of two tests in Suva next month.
The series, against the worlds fifth-ranked team, was agreed in August and was to be a carbon copy of last year, when Malawi stopped off in Fiji following the Fast 5 tournament in Auckland, comfortably winning both tests.
Despite costs for the trip being covered by Fiji, Pearls coach Kate Carpenter says Malawi have informed them they won't have enough players to fulfil their commitment.
"That was fantastic last year for the girls, also because it's played at home and all the netball supporters can see what that top group looks like, so that's not happening. It was in the programme but Malawi are unable to meet that commitment so our first international matches and preparation will start in next year - that six months through until the World Cup".
Kate Carpenter says Fiji expect to play about ten tests between now and the World Cup, including at the Pacific Games in Port Moresby, with further announcements due later this month.
