Netball: Grant in hot water after umpire confrontation

Katrina Grant. Photo / Getty

Central Pulse defender Katrina Grant is facing a transtasman league disciplinary hearing following an ugly post-match confrontation with umpire Jono Bredin after her side's draw with the Southern Steel last week.

Grant was seen on the television coverage immediately after the game angrily remonstrating with Bredin, who awarded the Steel a penalty shot under the post to draw the match. Bredin called a contact on Grant in the dying seconds of regular time as she attempted a late intercept.

Unimpressed with Grant's reaction to the call - which amounted to little more than a shocked expression - Bredin advanced the penalty into the shooting circle, giving the Steel shooter Brooke Leaver a chance to snatch the draw.

Leaver's shot was off target but was rebounded by 1.98m Jamaican shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Reid who slotted the goal on the stroke of full time.

Grant went straight to Bredin to express her contempt at the call, and it is understood some of the language used was bordering on abusive. Netball New Zealand umpiring manager Colleen Bond later stepped in, ordering Grant away.

It is understood Bredin made a complaint to the ANZ Championship office over the Silver Ferns' defender's conduct.

The ANZ Championship officer today ruled Grant had a case to answer, referring the matter to the disciplinary officer. It is the first time a player has faced a misconduct hearing in eight seasons of the league. The matter is to be heard tomorrow afternoon, with possible sanctions including a fine or suspension.

Last week Mainland Tactix coach Sue Hawkins was issued with a reprimand by the league office after criticising the umpiring in a sideline interview during her side's 68-49 loss to the Swifts.