Aussie squad for New Zealand series announced

The Australian squad to tour New Zealand for the three-match Test series starting next week was announced by coach Norma Plummer on Monday.

Two changes have been made to the squad that was involved in the two Test series against New Zealand last July, with Natasha Chokljat replacing Perth Orioles midcourter Jess Shynn who recently underwent knee surgery and Julie Prendergast taking the place of AIS Canberra Darters defender Susan Fuhrmann.

Liz Ellis will captain the team and Sharelle McMahon has been named as vice captain, with the selection panel choosing not to continue with the co-captaincy policy that was in place during the last series.

Plummer is confident that Chokljat will make the most of her recall to international netball.

“Natasha (Chokljat) had an excellent trial this (selection) camp and brings great versatility and experience to the side right across the mid court,” said Plummer.

Prendergast was a stand out performer for Victoria at the recent National 21-and-under Championships and such performances were the main reason why she was selected to make her open debut for Australia.

“Julie (Prendergast) stood out as a star player at the recent 21/U National Championships. She has continued to develop her skills as a defender and improves at every trial she has.

“She is a keen, fast learner, a superb athlete and great one-on-one defender.”

Sydney Swifts midcourter Kimberlee Green was not available for selection after sustaining an ankle injury at the National 21-and under championships.

Players selected for the tour will assemble as a squad in Sydney on October 7 before departing for New Zealand the next day.

The Events Centre in Wellington will host the opening Test on October 12. ABC TV will show a delayed telecast of the match at 11:40pm AEST.

Australian Netball Team
Liz Ellis- Captain (Sydney Swifts)
Sharelle McMahon- Vice Captain (Melbourne Phoenix)
Bianca Chatfield (Melbourne Phoenix)
Natasha Chokljat (Melbourne Phoenix)
Catherine Cox (Sydney Swifts)
Mo’onia Gerrard (Sydney Swifts)
Selina Gilsenan (Sydney Swifts)
Kristen Heinrich (Adelaide Thunderbirds)
Susan Pratley (Sydney Swifts)
Julie Prendergast (Melbourne Phoenix)
Laura von Bertouch (Adelaide Thunderbirds)
Natalie von Bertouch (Adelaide Thunderbirds)
Coach Norma Plummer

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