Injured Stevie Camilleri ruled out of the rest of the World Cup Division II campaign

The Malta water polo national team suffered a blow on Wednesday as captain Stevie Camilleri was ruled out for the rest of the World Cup Division II due to injury.

The Neptunes WPSC player picked up a nasal injury during Malta’s 15-12 defeat to Australia in the opening match of the tournament at the National Pool.

Tests carried out after the match showed that the prolific player suffered a serious nasal injury.

The loss of Camilleri is a significant blow for coach Milan Cirovic, who had watched the player play a significant role in Malta’s combative display against Australia, netting a hat-trick in the process.

“The President, Executive and National Team Coaching Technical Staff extend their best wishes to Captain Stevie Camilleri for a full and speedy recovery,” the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta said in a statement.

“Following yesterday’s World Aquatics World Cup Division II match against Australia, Stevie sustained a serious nasal injury and will be sidelined for the coming weeks. This is a challenging moment for the team, but his leadership and presence remain invaluable.

“We stand united in our support and look forward to welcoming him back in the water as soon as he has recovered.”

Sources have told Times of Malta that Camilleri is expected to undergo surgery this week and is likely to return to full action in approximately a month’s time.