Silver Ferns Coach Reveals Key Selection Decisions for Upcoming Series

The Silver Ferns announced their squad for the 2025-26 season, showcasing notable selections by coach Dame Noeline Taurua. Among the highlights was the return of shooter Grace Nweke, who received an exemption to join the team despite her current commitment to the New South Wales Swifts in Australia. Additionally, Peta Toeava earned her spot in the squad for the first time in three years, marking a significant moment in her career.

Toeava, who stands at 169 cm, first debuted in international play in 2018 and made a brief return in the 2021-22 season. Her limited appearances, totaling only eight Tests, were largely due to past fitness challenges. However, the current selection process allowed the Silver Ferns selectors to choose players based on full fitness standards, with all 18 selected athletes meeting the required benchmarks.

Inspiring Returns and New Opportunities

“Either at the beginning of the season or halfway through the ANZ Premiership season, they’ve all been ticked off,” Dame Noeline stated. She expressed excitement over Toeava’s progress, saying, “I’m elated for her. She was able to get herself over the mark; she committed hugely to what needed to happen.” This reflects a broader trend within the team, as all players named have shown considerable improvement in their fitness levels.

Toeava’s long-standing partnership with Nweke, developed during their time at the Mystics, adds depth to the Silver Ferns’ shooting circle. Nweke’s initial ineligibility for the national team was overturned thanks to a recent policy shift by Netball New Zealand, which now allows for greater flexibility in player selections.

“Knowing how big a player she is, I’m elated,” Dame Noeline remarked about Nweke’s return. “Her experience in the Suncorp Super Netball will be invaluable for all of us.” The coach emphasized that both players will play crucial roles in the upcoming matches.

Fresh Faces in the Squad

The newly announced squad features six uncapped players, including three shooters vying for positions. The goal attack slot remains competitive, especially with the absence of Ameliaranne Ekenasio. Georgia Heffernan, who had a strong debut series last year, is seen as a leading candidate. Meanwhile, debutants Saviour Tui, Martina Salmon, and Filda Vui are expected to seize their opportunities.

As competition intensifies, Dame Noeline noted the adaptability of players like Maddy Gordon and Kimiora Poi, who can excel in multiple positions. The depth in the midcourt has made it challenging for some players, such as Claire O’Brien and Whitney Souness, to secure their places in the squad.

Despite missing out this time, Dame Noeline commended both Paris Lokotui and Michaela Sokolich-Beatson for their performances but acknowledged the fierce competition for positions. The coach is confident in the existing players’ abilities to adapt and perform at a high level.

Among the promising additions, Tayla Earle has transitioned from the development squad to the main team after demonstrating consistent improvement, particularly in her defensive play. “She stood her ground and is starting to show the next levels she’s capable of,” Dame Noeline remarked.

Looking Ahead: Key Series and Challenges

The Silver Ferns are set to host South Africa next month in a three-Test series, followed by the Constellation Cup series against Australia in October. In November, the team will travel to the UK to face Scotland, concluding the year with three Tests against England, who narrowly defeated the Silver Ferns 2-1 in the previous Taini Jamison series.

As Dame Noeline prepares her squad, she highlights the importance of these upcoming matches, especially against a formidable England side. “We pushed really hard to get that series. It’s a relief to have those extra tests to provide opportunities for players to get some good court time,” she noted.

With the Commonwealth Games on the horizon and a focus on building a strong team for the 2027 World Cup, the Silver Ferns are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting and competitive season ahead.