Silver Ferns Face Challenges as Coach Suspension Looms

The Silver Ferns are navigating a turbulent period as interim vice-captain Kelly Jackson addressed the emotional toll following the suspension of coach Dame Noeline Taurua. Netball New Zealand announced on October 7, 2025, that Taurua would be sidelined for the remainder of the year, just days before the pivotal Constellation Cup series against Australia, the reigning world champions. This decision follows ongoing disputes regarding the Silver Ferns’ high-performance environment, which have yet to reach a resolution despite efforts from both parties.

Taurua’s suspension is not the first controversy to impact the team; she was controversially stood down shortly before the Taini Jamison series against South Africa last month. Jackson, now the most experienced player on the squad with 75 test caps, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus amid the distractions. “These last couple of months have weighed on us heavily, mentally and emotionally,” she stated. “It’s up to us as leaders to redirect the energy back onto the netball court.”

In light of these challenges, fellow defender Karin Burger has been appointed interim captain, with both players preparing for a demanding schedule that includes the Constellation Cup and a northern tour to Scotland and England. Jackson acknowledged the strain the situation has placed on players, mentioning the need to support one another both on and off the court.

Jackson shared her personal approach to coping with the stress, highlighting the importance of family and friends during this tumultuous time. “I’ve had to bear a lot of weight in this,” she explained. “Making sure I’m spending time with my family and friends has been crucial for me in this process.”

The scrutiny surrounding the Silver Ferns has intensified, particularly after players raised concerns about Taurua’s leadership following a training camp in January. An independent review subsequently identified significant issues within the team’s environment. Jackson noted the hurtful comments directed at players on social media and the impact these have on their well-being.

“Some things that have been said to certain players have been pretty hurtful,” she said. “For myself, it’s about blocking out as much unhelpful noise as possible.” The team’s commitment to focusing on performance is paramount, as Burger articulated. “We can’t control the opinions that are out there,” she remarked. “What we can control is our performance on the court.”

Looking ahead, the Silver Ferns are determined to defend their title in the Constellation Cup, having completed a clean sweep against South Africa last month. The first test against Australia is scheduled for October 17, 2025, marking a significant challenge for the team.

Interim coach Yvette McCausland-Durie stated that the full squad participated in the decision-making process regarding captaincy roles. She praised Burger’s leadership qualities, emphasizing her work ethic and ability to connect with the team. “Karin is a natural leader who sets the tone through her work ethic, competitiveness, and unwavering commitment to the team,” McCausland-Durie said.

Burger, reflecting on her unexpected rise to leadership, expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “Never did I think that I would one day captain the Silver Ferns,” she said. “To be able to stand here today and be called an interim captain is amazing. I just need to keep being myself while acknowledging the workload involved.”

As the Silver Ferns gear up for their upcoming matches, they remain focused on the goal of becoming back-to-back Constellation Cup winners, ready to face the challenges ahead with resilience and determination.