Silver Ferns WC squad: we make our picks
Silver Ferns coach Noeline Taurua will this afternoon name her 12player Netball World Cup squad, featuring three reserves for the first time, to defend New Zealand’s title. Netball writer Kayla Hodge offers her squad.
Shooters
Probably the easiest — and most predictable — selections. Grace Nweke is a nobrainer. The 21yearold is a gamewinner, as is Silver Ferns captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio. Her timing has been a step above and she has grown as a leader for the Ferns in recent years. Maia Wilson had a standout ANZ Premiership season — the most accurate shooter in the league — and brings strength under the post. The final spot here should go to Te Paea SelbyRickit. Had a slow start, and most predicted Bailey Mes before Mes surprised everyone by announcing her retirement. But SelbyRickit has 59 caps for a reason and stands up when it counts.
Reserve: Most expect Tiana Metuarau, but I think Amorangi Malesala deserves it. Had a breakout season with the Stars, never afraid to go to the post, creates space for everyone and has a wise head.
Midcourters
Ah, the headache. Ten years ago, the Silver Ferns were screaming for a wing attack, and now there are too many to choose from. Gina Crampton is a must. She has a wealth of experience and is always going to get the nod for the big games. Kate Heffernan shone at the Quad Series earlier this year, is coming into her own and should start at centre. This is where it gets hard. Maddy Gordon is relatively inexperienced internationally, but had a sensational season and plays across the midcourt, making her invaluable for a World Cup. The selectors are likely to go with Peta Toeava for the final spot due to her connection with Nweke, but I’d pick Whitney Souness. She has more international experience and plays both centre and wing attack.
Reserve: Needs to be either Claire Kersten or Sam Winders. Kersten has been more in favour with selectors recently. Both have international experience and play wing defence/centre, where the cover is needed.
Defenders
Karin Burger is vital. She can slide from the circle to midcourt, her aerial game is outstanding, and she led this season in intercepts. Her combination with Jane Watson has grown again, and with both ballgetters missing the Commonwealth Games due to injury and pregnancy, they make a welcome return. Kelly Jury’s lean is undeniable, and she led the season for rebounds and deflections and was second for intercepts, which surely books her spot. Phoenix Karaka is experienced, playing in the past two World Cups, and has had a solid season to solidify her spot.
Reserve: Selectors will go with Sulu Fitzpatrick, considering her international experience and leadership. However, I’d argue for Michaela SokolichBeatson. A ‘‘replacement‘‘ for Katrina Rore at the 2019 World Cup — until Rore’s calf pulled through — and has limited international experience since due to two gutwrenching injuries. But her closing speed is second to none, she shuts wing attacks down and covers circle and midcourt defence.