Bushfire Relief – Surprise packets

WITH the Australian Diamonds and Suncorp Super Netball All-Stars list finalised for their Australian Bushfire Relief game we take a look at two surprise packets or up and coming players for each side.

Australian Diamonds:

Kiera Austin:

The talented goaler has plenty to offer and while she does not have experience on her side she has excitement and youth as a touted future Diamonds star. Having played with the GIANTS expect the goaler to have a strong connection with Australian captain, Caitlin Bassett making for a dynamic duo in the goal circle. Austin is a very versatile player able to move between the shooting circle and wing attack with ease, making her a crucial player for the Diamonds. She is a confidence player who will grow as the match goes on and has proven that she is not afraid to back herself from range in the circle.

Maddy Turner:

Only still developing her defensive craft, the New South Wales Swift defender will be hoping to have an immediate impact when on court. Her connection with fellow defender Sarah Klau will go a long way with the two able to rotate in the circle with ease and apply a wealth of pressure. She is a real excitement machine with her aerial ability and skill to cover the court with ease. Turner is a more tagging style of defender but has proven that she can change up her game plan and hunt the ball rather than nullify her opponent. Her lean over the shot and read of the play makes her a constant threat across the court; pair that with her determination and Turner could be the difference on court.

SSN All-Stars:

Kristiana Manu’a:

Arguably one of the surprise packets of the All-Stars team with the 24-year-old defender really coming into her own in 2019. She offers plenty of athleticism and physicality in the goal circle thanks to her tenacious attitude. Manu’a is not the tallest player but works hard across the court to cover her opponent and shadow their every move. She is a real competitor and always gives 100 per cent making her an exciting prospect for the All-Stars. The typical goal defence can be used as an impact player, able to inject some speed and defensive pressure into the backend while her offensive efforts are just as impressive working hard to bring the ball down the court.

Gabi Simpson:

This will be a chance for the hardworking and highly skilful wing defence to once again prove herself against the best of the best in hope to reclaim a spot in the Diamonds. The Firebirds midcourter oozes sheer athleticism with her impressive leap and speed off the mark making her a handy inclusion in the All-Star team. Simpson has struggled for consistency over the last season and will be hoping to announce herself in this contest with her smothering defensive pressure and quick feet. She clogs up space in the attacking third and is not afraid to hunt the ball time and time again while her connection with the likes of Emily Mannix and Kate Moloney from their time in the Diamonds could pay dividends in trying to topple the current list.

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