THE New Zealand ANZ Premiership competition is set to commence on February 24th with six teams competing to win the title in June. The league consists of the Northern Mystics, Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic, Northern Stars, Central Pulse, Southern Steel and Mainland Tactix. The season will span over 13 rounds with the six teams playing each other three times throughout the year. Finals will be played on Wednesday May 28th with the winner proceeding to play in the grand final on Sunday June 2nd. The finals system has an interesting set up, with two and three facing off in an elimination final before the winner progresses to play in the grand final the following week against the team that finished first on the home and away ladder.
Former Thunderbirds player and Silver Ferns veteran, Leana De Bruin has made her way back home and is set to play with the Northern Stars, adding some much needed experience and class in the defensive end. Meanwhile Sunshine Coast Lightning premiership winning team member, Erena Mikaere will pull on the dress for the Mystics after spending four years in Australia. A host of Aussies have also joined the ANZ Premiership with GIANTS Netball shooter, Krissy Brice and Thunderbirds youngster, Charlee Hodges jumping across the ditch to pursue opportunities in New Zealand. The Northern Mystics will be without star shooter and Silver Ferns gun, Maria Folau who has headed over to Australia to play in the Adelaide Thunderbirds in 2019. Silver Ferns defender, Casey Kopua will take the court once more for Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic, while Ferns goalers, Ameliaranne Ekenasio and Maia Wilson will take the court for Central Pulse and Northern Stars, respectively.
Rounds one, six and eleven will see five games played over the weekend, meaning some clubs will play two games over the few days. Most of these blockbuster rounds will be held at the one location allowing for fans to flock to the one stadium and see multiple games. The quick turnover rate will make for interesting contests and provide plenty of excitement for all involved.
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