Netball NZ’s dramatic U-turn means Grace Nweke could play for Silver Ferns

Monday, 21 July 2025

Star shooter Grace Nweke is set to return to the Silver Ferns after Netball New Zealand made a significant change to its eligibility criteria.

Goal shoot Nweke, who joined the New South Wales Swifts in Australia’s Super Netball this season, was off-limits to Silver Ferns coach Noeline Taurua under the previous rules.

That is about to change under what Netball NZ called an “exemption process’’.

The Netball NZ board announced on Monday that it has reviewed the Silver Ferns selection policy and updated the eligibility criteria.

This has paved the way for greater flexibility for athletes who wish to play overseas while still maintaining the integrity of national selection.

The revised criteria will now allow athletes playing abroad the opportunity to be considered for Silver Ferns selection through a formal exemption process.

This update reflects the evolving nature of elite netball globally and Netball NZ’s commitment to supporting athlete welfare, performance, and long-term development

Netball NZ chair Matt Whineray said the board recognised the need for a more flexible and responsive approach.

“We’ve listened to the game and believe this is a positive step forward,” said Whineray.

“This update strikes a balance between flexibility and fairness, acknowledging the increasingly global nature of netball while continuing to protect the integrity of our domestic competitions and the mana of the Silver Ferns.’’

Netball NZ chief executive officer Jennie Wyllie said the change ensures athletes are supported through clear and transparent decision-making.

“Ultimately, the purpose of this proposed process is to ensure that all exemption requests are evaluated fairly, consistently, and transparently,” said Wyllie.

“It safeguards the athlete through a structured and transparent approach, while upholding the broader interests of Netball New Zealand, the Silver Ferns, and the ANZ Premiership competition.”

Netball NZ will implement the updated criteria ahead of the upcoming international season, with clear guidelines and assessment measures for any exemption applications.

Netball NZ also confirmed the ANZ Premiership programme for 2026. It remains a six-team competition played over 10 rounds.

It will have the same timing due to the Commonwealth Games in late July.