A new look Silver Ferns side will be on display at next month’s Nations Cup against hosts England, Australia and Uganda.
Coach Dame Noeline Taurua has named a team of 11, with regulars Maia Wilson and Tiana Metuarau left out, as well as wing attack Peta Toeava and defender Jane Watson. Watson is taking planned leave next month and is unavailable.
Northern Mystics defender Michaela Sokolich-Beatson has earned a re-call five years since her last appearance in the black dress. Taurua was impressed by Sokolich-Beatson at the team’s trials in Auckland this week.
“Michaela will bring another level of leadership to our group, and I’m delighted with how she has been playing following what has been a tough road back from injury. She put her hand up at trials and it will be exciting to have her back in the Silver Ferns.”
Taurua has opted for just three shooters with Stars shooter Amorangi Malesala earn a maiden call-up after an impressive ANZ Premiership season alongside Grace Nweke and Amelia Walmsley.
The midcourt remains unchanged from last month’s Constellation Cup against Australia while Sokolich-Beatson comes into the defensive mix alongside Karin Burger, Kelly Jury and Phoenix Karaka (captain) for Watson.
“Amorangi has worked hard this year and has stood out in the Silver Ferns Development Squad. We are looking forward to bringing her into the Ferns environment and competing against some of the best netballers in the world.”
Taurua said Karaka will captain the touring side with Ameliaranne Ekenasio taking a break.
“Phoenix has represented the Ferns at three Netball World Cups and leads by example with her play on court and her work ethic off the court. She is fiercely proud of wearing the black dress and the mana that it holds,” Taurua added.
Kate Burley, Tayla Earle and Georgia Heffernan will travel with the team as training partners and can be used as injury cover.
New South Wales Swifts coach Briony Akle will also travel with the team in place of assistant coach Debbie Fuller who is unable to travel.
The Silver Ferns open their Nations Cup campaign against Australia in London on January 21.
Silver Ferns Team - Netball Nations Cup
Shooters: Amorangi Malesala, Grace Nweke, Amelia Walmsley
Midcourters: Maddy Gordon, Kate Heffernan, Mila Reuelu-Buchanan, Whitney Souness
Defenders: Karin Burger, Kelly Jury, Phoenix Karaka (captain), Michaela Sokolich-Beatson
Training partners: Kate Burley, Tayla Earle, Georgia Heffernan
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