Watson notable absentee from Silver Ferns
JANE Watson has been left out of the Silver Ferns squad for the Constellation Cup.
The defender is one of two notable absentees, alongside veteran Grace Rasmussen, from the 12player team named yesterday.
Watson featured in both the Quad Series and Taini Jamison Trophy tests, but has been overlooked for Kelly Jury and Temalisi Fakahokotau.
Having had an impressive season with the Southern Steel, in which she was named ANZ Premiership player of the year, Watson has had a quiet past month.
The success of the 1.92mtall Jury at goal keep has enabled her to take Watson’s starting spot, while Fakahokotau continues her impressive rise.
Watson, who is moving to the Mainland Tactix next season, has played 17 tests for New Zealand.
The other big casualty was Rasmussen, an option at both wing attack and goal attack.
She was ousted by youngster Whitney Souness, who bolted into the team for the Quad Series.
Steel players Gina Crampton, Te Paea SelbyRickit and Shannon Francois all retain their spots in the squad.
With Whitney Souness, Crampton and Francois being joined by Kayla Cullen and Sam Sinclair in the midcourt, coach Janine Southby has named five midcourters.
Cullen is capable of playing in the defensive circle as well, offering backup for Jury, Fakahokotau and captain Katrina Grant.
In the shooting circle, SelbyRickit is joined by Maria Tutaia, Bailey Mes and Maia Wilson.
The Constellation Cup involves the Silver Ferns playing Australia in four matches, two at home and two away.
It will begin in Auckland on October 5.
Silver Ferns coach Janine Southby said the team was expecting a fierce contest.
‘‘This is a trophy that has eluded us for a few years now.
‘‘We took a lot of confidence out of that win against Australia in the Quad Series, but we know that the Constellation Cup is a different ball game.
‘‘New Zealand v Australia battles are always fierce. Fans love them, the players love them, they’re a great spectacle for our sport.’’