The Australian Diamonds have a 25th captain with mid-court star Liz Watson announced as the new national skipper.
Watson will have Steph Wood as her vice-captain after both were voted into the leadership positions by their teammates and a selection committee comprised of Diamonds head coach Stacey Marinkovich, Netball Australia CEO Kelly Ryan and former Diamonds captain Liz Ellis.
Watson replaces Caitlin Bassett who was moved out of the captaincy when Marinkovich took over as coach. After trialling several captains in the Constellation Cup series against New Zealand in March, she has settled on a sole leader.
Despite missing the entire Super Netball season with the Vixens after having surgery on the navicular bone in her foot Watson, 27, was described by her teammates as a calm and controlled leader who empowers them both on and off the court.
After making her international debut in 2016, Watson won the Liz Ellis Diamond just two years later in 2018 s the best player in Australia.
“I am very humbled and proud to be acknowledged by my teammates,” Watson said.
“I love this sport, I love this team and I love this country. To be given the honour as captain of the Origin Australian Diamonds is something I will forever be thankful for.”
“This squad is so special and there will be many learnings, opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime. So many people have been a part of my journey and I am proud that they will be smiling seeing this announcement today.”
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