Geitz makes return at Diamonds training camp

FORMER Australian captain Laura Geitz has been invited to join the Diamonds squad as a “training partner” for a camp in Canberra starting today.

It marks her return to training with the national team after giving birth to her first child, Barney, last February and is her first involvement with the Australian squad since May 2016.

It also keeps alive her hopes of representing Austra- lia at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in April. While the 30-year-old defender, who is currently training with the Queensland Firebirds ahead of her Super Netball comeback, remains a long shot, it at least keeps her in contention for selection.

“Laura has been training well during the Queensland Firebirds pre-season,” coach Lisa Alexander said.

“This provides an opportunity for her to return to the Diamonds environment and test herself in our match conditions.

“This camp will play a part in our selection of the Commonwealth Games team, so it was important for us to see Laura in action.”

Alexander said last month it was “not as likely” that Geitz would be involved in the camp, which runs from January 11 to 14. A 14-strong squad — not including Geitz — will then fly out for the up- coming Quad Series against New Zealand, South Africa and England in London and Johannesburg. The tournament is the last hitout for the Diamonds ahead of the Commonwealth Games. Australian Diamonds: Caitlin Bassett, April Brandley, Courtney Bruce, Paige Hadley, Emily Mannix, Kate Moloney, Susan Pettitt, Kim Ravaillion, Gabi Simpson, Caitlin Thwaites, Gretel Tippett, Liz Watson, Jo Weston, Stephanie Wood.