THE New Zealand Silver Ferns selectors have announced a squad of 28 trialists ahead of the international season.

Those selected will now head to Wellington for a three day camp on August 19 to 21, from which the Silver Ferns squad, Silver Ferns Development Squad, teams for the Cadbury Series, Taini Jamison Trophy, Constellation Cup and FAST5 Ferns will all be selected.

All six of the ANZ Premiership sides are represented, with the Mystics having the highest number of players on the list with eight.

Shannon Saunders was not considered for selection because of a knew injury, but interesting Mila Reuelu-Buchanan was selected, despite tearing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in June.

Speaking on the announcement, coach Noeline Taurua said there had been many factors which have gone into naming the trialists.

“We have looked at balancing short term with focus on a long-term plan so that we can compete against the world’s best at the same time as looking to find the right mix. There are also athletes who are not ready to wear the dress at this moment of time but will be in the near future. We need to ensure our foundation pieces are strong but remain open to change and offer support to fast track athletes who we know will be around in 2027.

“Trials is also an opportunity for us to reset our direction towards 2027. How can we work together better, what will it take to win, who can absorb information quickly and of course be able to execute on court. Players need to be fit, healthy, robust and injury free to meet the requirements of trials. I’m looking forward to seeing who rises to the occasion.”

Silver Ferns Trialists

Karin Burger

Kate Burley

Tayla Earle

Georgie Edgecombe

Ameliaranne Ekenasio

Maddy Gordon

Catherine Hall

Georgia Heffernan

Kate Heffernan

Kelly Jackson

Phoenix Karaka

Paris Lokotui

Parris Mason

Tiana Metuarau

Erena Mikaere

Grace Nweke

Claire O’Brien

Kimiora Poi

Mila Reuelu-Buchanan* (unavailable due to injury)

Martina Salmon 

Michaela Sokolich-Beatson

Whitney Souness

Carys Stythe 

Georgia Takarangi

Elisapeta Toeava

Saviour Tui 

Amelia Walmsley

Maia Wilson