Netball New Zealand says it won't be going ahead with a proposed privately run domestic league, having previously signed a "non-binding term sheet" with investors Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams, leaving the future of the elite competition in doubt.
"Despite considerable efforts by both parties, the Netball New Zealand Board has concluded that an agreement to licence the privatisation of its elite domestic netball competition with Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams cannot be reached. Our communications with each other are confidential," the statement read.
"We recognise this news will be unsettling, particularly for players and support staff. We will communicate further as soon as we can."
The organisation’s new chief executive Jennah Wootten said while there had been challenges recently, there was also a lot to be positive about. (Source: Breakfast)
Mowbray and Williams – who are also co-owners of A-League side Auckland FC – planned to establish a private franchise league to replace the ANZ Premiership, following months of uncertainty about the competition's future.
Netball NZ previously said the term sheet set out an intention to work towards the privatisation of the domestic competition from 2027. Work had begun on developing a long-form agreement.
There would have been a five-team requirement for 2027, with the competition format, team structure, and season dates to be confirmed.
Player terms would be determined through collective bargaining with the New Zealand Netball Players' Association. Broadcast arrangements would sit with the investors, supported by Netball NZ.
Netball NZ would have remained the national governing body for the game and still be responsible for the Silver Ferns, national selection, the elite player pathway and community netball.
With uncertaintly over the domestic game, scores of NZ's leading players have moved overseas to play.
Mowbray and Williams have been approached for comment.
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