Netball: English star barred from Jets debut

The Griffin Souwest Jets are today reeling at news that former English international and West Coast Fever defender Ama Agbeze would not be included in their squad ahead of their State Netball League clash with Wheatbelt Flames in Perth tomorrow evening.

Souwest coach Michelle Willsher yesterday flagged the possibility of Agbeze’s inclusion in the Jets’ team, pending approval from West Coast Fever coach Jane Searle.

But Netball WA poured cold water on the suggestions, saying that a hectic ANZ Championship travel schedule would prevent Agbeze from playing.

The West Coast Fever played Waikato / Bay of Plenty Magic in Perth last night and will clash with Haier Pulse in New Zealand next week.

‘‘The West Coast Fever support the State Netball League wherever possible, however due to a heavy travel schedule and increased training workload this week, Agbeze will not be cleared to play for the Griffin Souwest Jets,’’ a Netball WA spokeswoman said.

‘‘The Fever will depart for Wellington on Friday, and after playing Monday night, will use Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for training purposes.’’

Agbeze, a 2006 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist, would come as a massive boost to the Souwest side’s back-court, particularly in the likely absence of emerging wing defence Lizzie Donovan, who is suffering from an ongoing ankle injury.

Donovan’s availability for the clash against the Wheatbelt will seek medical advise on her injury.

Willsher said that her side was optimistic of continuing with it’s winning form ahead of the grudge match against the Flames.

Last Wednesday, the Jets eased to a 10-goal triumph over SNL stragglers Rangers 49-39.

‘‘They (the Flames) are definately an arch rival of ours, having played in many grand final in the reserves competition against them,’’ she said.

‘‘The girls are certainly looking forward to it. It will give them a better idea of where they’re at and what they’ve got to do.’’