Langman done with netball?
New Zealand netball great Laura Langman has terminated her 2018 contract with the Sunshine Coast Lightning and could be done with elite netball.
Langman, who has been barred from playing for the Silver Ferns since last year because she was competing in Australia, has withdrawn from the Lightning squad and returned to New Zealand.
The 31-year-old, New Zealand’s second most capped player in history with 141 tests, will take a year away from the sport. It is unclear what her long-term plans are, but her departure could open the door for a potential Silver Ferns recall for the 2019 World Cup in Liverpool, England.
‘‘I have come to the decision that I am going to step away from netball in 2018,’’ Langman said in a club statement.
‘‘At this point in time I have nothing concrete planned for next year, but I will put more energy into travel, work and family life at home.
Langman played 141 consecutive matches for the Silver Ferns between 2005-16 and the centre-wing defence is one of the greatest players in New Zealand netball history.
In July, Langman opted against returning to play in New Zealand’s ANZ Premiership and re-signed with the Lightning, who she won the inaugural Super Netball title with this season.
She has had a rethink and decided to take time out from the sport.
‘‘There were a lot of tears and a lot of thought put into this, but I am happy with my decision.
‘‘I have memories that will last forever, so thank you to everyone involved in the club for the amazing journey. I am sad but excited to see what is ahead.’’
Lightning coach Noeline Taurua, a Kiwi, who previously mentored Langman at the Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic, supported her decision. She hoped it might free the way for Langman to play for New Zealand again.
‘‘Laura’s return to New Zealand may open the door for a possible call-up to the Silver Ferns in the future,’’ Taurua said in a statement.
‘‘She is too good an athlete to be lost to netball and I hope she comes back to the sport when she is ready.’’
The stance from NNZ’s board to only select players for the Silver Ferns, who are competing in the ANZ Premiership polarised sports fans.