The ‘Gems’ shocked the netball world with a fairytale run to the global showpiece in the United Kingdom, where they have been lumped into the same group stage pool as defending champions Australia for the July 12-21 tournament.

But despite the enormity of simply qualifying for the event, the world number 13’s have been starved of significant financial aid.

The team currently survives on donations from local churches and businesses, a far cry from the professional build-up Australia’s star Diamonds will enjoy for the Liverpool extravaganza.

Recent photos have emerged depicting the abysmal accommodation players were forced to endure in the lead up to friendly matches against Uganda. With rubbish scattered everywhere and bedding resembling yoga mats, conditions appeared insufficient for professional athletes. 

The Zimbabwean Government had promised to fully-fund a preparation camp to Uganda in April. Instead, when no money came through, the Gems were left stranded in Harare, subsequently forcing them to abandon the first two games of the trip.

Zimbabwean sports minister, Kirsty Coventry recently responded to such criticism, saying on Twitter: “(The Government is) waiting for the federation to send budgets etc, which we have continuously asked for.

“Netball is not the only sport that has these issues so we are working on better structures for greater support.

“I committed my help to their World Cup last year and this hasn't changed.”

Yet, despite apparent pledged assistance, Gems spokesperson Maimba Mapuranga insists “governments here say a lot and do very little.”

The myriad of adversities facing the players has been further propagated with an absence of required training resources.