SRI LANKA

Coach: Thilaka Jinadasa

Star: At 213 centimetres, shooter Tharjini Sivalingam is a formidable target.

Burning question: Can their experience help? In their 10th World Cup, Sri Lanka's veterans could be the difference in progressing.

Chances: Sri Lanka has a chance to make the second round, but must be at their best. Kiwi star Laura Langman. Credit:AAP Group B NEW ZEALAND

Coach: Noeline Taurua

Star: Match-winning star Laura Langman is the engine room of any team she is in. This is no different.

Burning question: Will they click? Much has been made of fitness from the Silver Ferns but cohesion will matter just as much if they are to win it all.

Chances: They may have fallen behind England and Jamaica in recent times but remain dangerous. Top three is not beyond them. MALAWI

Coach: Griffin Saenda

Star: With Mwai Kumwenda injured, UK-based shooter Joyce Mvula will shoulder the load in attack.

Burning question: Can the Queens rise again? Malawi have caused shocks before and if they find form will push anyone.

Chances: Finishing second or third in the group will be the aim. It will be hard going after that.

BARBADOS

Coach: Sandra Bruce-Small

Star: Vice-captain Latonia Blackman will once again provide the focal point in attack.

Burning question: Can their defence stand tall? The Bajan Gems have some sharpshooters but their defensive pressure will be severely tested.

Chances: Their best ever finish is sixth. If they can equal that they will have played a mighty tournament. SINGAPORE

Coach: Natalie Milicich

Star: Centrecourt player Shawallah Rashid had her second child in February and returns to play a key role for her side.

Burning question: Will they beat their ranking? The world No. 24 aim to make the second round; beating No. 12 Barbados will see them do it.

Chances: Making the second round would be like winning the World Cup. Don't rule it out. Group C JAMAICA

Coach: Marvette Anderson

Star: Romelda Aiken has starred in Super Netball and her shooting will be vital.

Burning question: Can they beat expectations? Jamaica claimed bronze at the Commonwealth Games and sit second in world rankings. Will expectations prove too much?

Chances: Jamaica has the talent and depth to make a run at the gold but they must be at their best. SOUTH AFRICA

Coach: Norma Plummer

Star: Defensive ace Karla Pretorius has impressed in Super Netball and will have some big tasks in this group.

Burning question: Is this their time? Plummer will demand the best from her players, their group form will show if they are capable of a run at the top-four.

Chances: South Africa has made big strides. If they win games in this group, they could prove a handful.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Coach: Wesley Gomez

Star: Wing attack Rhonda John-Davis will play in her record sixth World Cup.

Burning question: Do they have the depth? After already replacing two players in their squad, a lot will be asked of their starting seven.

Chances: It's not beyond them to be make the second round but Fiji will push them hard. FIJI

Coach: Vicki Wilson

Star: Shooter Lydia Panapasa is at her first World Cup but will have a big role to play.

Burning question: Will their centrecourt lift? Fiji has some talent but their engine room will decide if they can make the second round.

Chances: You can never count out Fiji but getting out of this group could be too difficult. Group D ENGLAND

Coach: Tracey Neville

Star: Geva Mentor is the elite defender in world netball and match-winner with her interceptions.

Burning question: Will they handle favouritism? The Roses has snuck up in recent years but Commonwealth Games gold and home court builds pressure and expectations could prove exhausting.

Chances: The Roses have veteran team and stars on every line. They have every chance to win it but the likes of Jamaica, New Zealand and Australia will push them to the limit. Eboni Usoro-Brown's England claim gold at the Commonwealth Games. Credit:AAP