WITH the Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) season around the corner after a yearlong hiatus due to the COVID-19 enforced cancellation in 2020 Draft Central takes a look at each team, player lists and expectations. Continuing the analysis of each team the next side in focus is Surrey Storm.

The Storm did not get off to the best start in the 2020 season and will be hoping to turn their fortunes around this season with early wins on the board. Boasting a list with a number of raw prospects it will be a year of development and trial and error to see which combinations work.

2021 expectations/predictions:

It has been a difficult past couple of seasons for the Storm who have struggled to find their winning mojo but with that in mind Surrey have built a strong core of players that are able to grind out games and ply their trade. The highly experienced Karyn Bailey will once again heaad up the Surrey Storm frontend with the goal shooter a composed figure under the post. Oozing impressive timing along the baseline and a long range shooter, Bailey is an easy target that delivers at a steady rate. As the established and recognised goaler it will be up to Bailey to lead the likes of Ellie Kelk, Sophie Kelly and Francesca Wells inside the goal circle. Speaking of attack, expect midcourter Mikki Austin to play an integral role in the Storm’s season, using her one-two punch in attack to open up space and also play a defensive role.

All eyes will turn to exciting new inclusion Felisitus Kwangwa with the Zimbabwean captain joining the ranks for her inaugural VNSL season. The dynamic defender has proven to be a real livewire down back able to inject that element of flair and unpredictability with her ball winning ways and excitement. Although not the most experienced option on court, what she will offer is a sense of pressure, not afraid to track every ball that comes her way. Leah Middleton is also in for a big season with the defender able to use her long arms and quick feet to full effect to win ball back, time and time again. Alima Priest is another exciting prospect looking to take her defensive skillset to the next level in 2021 and capitalise on her chances with Grace Sullivan and Lauren Tait also able to rotate through the backend.

Player to watch:

Talented midcourter, Yasmin Parsons has steadily blossomed, recognised at the international level thanks to her dynamic movement, read of the play and netball smarts. Parsons is a clever player, able to weave the ball down the court and use her attacking mindset to deliver the ball on a silver platter and get into damaging positions. Her circle work is impressive, constantly moving to reposition and claim prime feeding position. She is one of the more experienced names in the squad and will be expected to use her composure with ball in hand to slice through the defence.

Team list:

Mikki Austin
Karyn Bailey
Niamh Cooper
Emily Gulvin
Nicole Humphrys
Ellie Kelk
Sophie Kelly
Felisitus Kwangwa
Emma Magee
Leah Middleton
Yasmin Parsons
Alima Priest
Grace Sullivan
Lauren Tait