The Fiji U21 netball team has started their World Youth Netball Championship in the Cook Islands on a winning note defeating Samoa 57-43 this afternoon.

The Melissa Walker coached side which is on 13th spot in the world rankings outscored the Samoans who ranked 7th by 14 points.

Captain Asilika Sevutia led by example and was well assisted by the rest of her teammates.

Fiji will now focus their attention on their next game against Botswana tomorrow afternoon.

In other results, Australia thumped South Africa 73 goals to 22, and Singapore beat Papua New Guinea 61 goals to 23.

Fiji's next game is at 5.15pm tomorrow against Botswana.