Harrison downplays a return to Silver Ferns in near future

Retired Silver Fern Anna Harrison has responded to speculation about a possible return to international netball by saying she is unavailable — for now.

Harrison, who retired in 2018, made a comeback at ANZ Premiership level with the Northern Stars this season and her success has reportedly caught the eye of Silver Ferns coach Noeline Taurua.

“I never planned on coming back to the Ferns,” Harrison said yesterday. “When you come out of retirement, one of the many worries is being able to perform to the level I hold myself to, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t chuffed that Noels [Noeline Taurua] has said I’m playing at a level that could be considered for the Ferns.”

Harrison said her decision came only after a tough internal battle to test herself at the highest level again and the reality of being a 38-year-old with three children.

“I spent the last 20-plus years driving myself to be the best I can in that black dress, so when someone gives you a sniff of it again, the ears prick up.

“There’s a lot of voices going on in my head but there’s a more rational one that’s more in touch with reality and it’s telling me I will not be available for the Silver Ferns.”

But Harrison went on to say that was how she felt now and her opinion could change.

“I am saying I’m not available but, you know, I have been known to change my mind in the past. But right now, I’m comfortable with the decision that I’m not available.

“I’m just surviving this season, and even the thought of going back into the intensity of high performance is exhausting.”

Stars coach Kiri Wills told the Herald on Thursday she could see the logic of Taurua’s interest in Harrison, given the defensive options available for the Silver Ferns. “The defensive stock is really low,” she said.