Maree Bowden will miss the Silver Ferns' international season. Photo / Michael Bradley
New Zealand netball has suffered a blow after experienced midcourter Maree Bowden announced she is unavailable for the Silver Ferns this year.
In a Netball New Zealand release, Canterbury Tactix centre/wing attack Bowden, 30, said she could no longer justify the time commitment to be part of the national programme
while furthering other aspects of her life.
"I am sad to leave the Ferns and I will miss it however I know now is the right time for me to concentrate on my family and developing my teaching career," she said.
Clyde-born Bowden (nee Grubb) played 15 tests since making her debut against Jamaica in Auckland in 2007. She was part of that year's world championships squad.
She first represented Canterbury at provincial level in 1999.
Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken says Bowden's on and off the court contribution to the Silver Ferns squad will be missed.
"Maree has always been a great team member in the Silver Ferns and we wish her the very best in the next phase of her life," Aitken said.
Aitken said Bowden's withdrawal opens up an opportunity for other midcourters to prove themselves.
However, no further additions have been made to Silver Ferns squad of 16 although the national selectors will continue to assess players in both the trans-Tasman league and regional training sessions.
The next Silver Ferns squad is named in July after the trans-Tasman league final series.
- NZPA
