The Silver Ferns Photo: www.photosport.nz
A Silver Ferns squad of 14 has been named to take on South Africa in the Taini Jamison Series, under interim coach Yvette McCausland-Durie.
For the first time in seven years, the national side heads into a series without coach Dame Noeline Taurua at the helm after she was sensationally stood down for the series last week.
Netball New Zealand selectors have named a 14-strong squad for the three-Test series, starting on Sunday.
A match-day 12 will be named 24 hours before the opening Test in Auckland and for the subsequent two Tests.
It was expected Dame Noeline would be announcing a new captain this week, with Ameliaranne Ekenasio not making herself available for the 2025 test window.
But instead a match-day captain and vice-captain will be selected from the squad throughout the series, depending on selections, illness and injury.
Karin Burger, Kelly Jackson, Kate Heffernan, Grace Nweke make up the leadership group that could fill those captaincy roles.
McCausland-Durie said she was looking forward to the contest against the Proteas.
"The Taini Jamison Series is always a special occasion, and we're excited to be welcoming South Africa back to New Zealand. They're a world class side and will provide exactly the kind of challenge we need as we continue to build."
Yvette McCausland-Durie Photo: Photosport
She said the squad provided balance and depth.
"We've selected a group that brings both proven international experience and fresh energy," McCausland-Durie said.
"It's a great chance for some of our newer players to step up on the international stage, while our established athletes will play a key role in leading the way."
Kate Burley, Tayla Earle and Saviour Tui were not selected but might get a chance when the Silver Ferns take on Australia in the Constellation Cup in October.
Amelia Walmsley was unavailable due to her commitments with the NZ Under-21 team competing at the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup.
Netball New Zealand has faced a torrent of criticism since last week's shock news that the popular Taurua and her coaching cohort were being stood down for the series.
Netball NZ said discussions with Dame Noeline and the Silver Ferns management team concerning proposed changes to the High Performance "programme and environment" had not been resolved.
Netball NZ board chairperson Matt Whineray said in light of that, the national body decided to appoint an interim coaching team for the series.
Silver Ferns for Taini Jamison Trophy
Shooters: Grace Nweke, Martina Salmon, Georgia Heffernan, Filda Vui
Midcourters: Elisapeta Toeava, Kimiora Poi, Mila Reuelu-Buchanan, Maddy Gordon, Kate Heffernan
Defenders: Karin Burger, Catherine Hall, Kelly Jackson, Parris Mason, Carys Stythe
The second and third Tests will be played in Napier and Invercargill respectively on 24 and 28 September.
