Two Silver Ferns have been named in the New Zealand team to contest the 2017 Netball World Youth Cup.
Maia Wilson and Kelly Jury headline the 12-strong Under 21 squad to defend their title in Botswana in July, along with a host of players who have had standout ANZ Premiershipand Beko Netball League seasons.
Michaela Sokolich-Beatson will captain the side, with Charlotte Elley named vice-captain.
Coach Kiri Wills says it has been a tough selection process, but the 12 selected have the edge and x-factor required.
"We've seen some amazing performances in the ANZ Premiership particularly. The players have shown that they can stand up and that they can be tough - and we're going to need tough," Wills said.
"We've picked a team that gives us a lot of variety, particularly at either end of the court. We've got holding shooters, moving shooters, we've got defenders who can play space and play tight man, and so we can mix it up and really use our game plans to our advantage."
Since the first NWYC in 1988, the NZU21s team has gone on to win Gold on three occasions (1992, 2005 and 2013). They are the reigning world champions having defeated Australia, 52-47, in 2013.
"It's a great position for us to be in. Generally we've been going in as underdogs, but it's a good challenge to be the defending champions," Wills said.
The NZU21s will depart New Zealand on Monday 3 July where they will continue their preparations in Johannesburg, South Africa, before arriving in Gaborone for the start of NWYC2017.
They have been drawn in Pool A against Sri Lanka, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Samoa, with their first match against Northern Ireland at 8am (local time), Saturday 8 July.
NZU21s team:
Aliyah Dunn Charlotte Elley Abby Erwood Monica Falkner Fa'amu Ioane Kelly Jury Kate Lloyd Tiana Metuarau Kimiora Poi Mila Reuelu-Buchanan Michaela Sokolich-Beatson Maia Wilson
