Whitney Souness Joins Giants as New Zealand Netballers Head to Australia

Former Silver Ferns midcourter Whitney Souness has signed with the Sydney-based Giants, marking her as the eighth New Zealand netballer to transition to the Australian league. This move comes shortly after Karin Burger became the fifth Silver Fern to receive an exemption to compete in the 2026 Suncorp Super Netball league, following recent changes to Netball New Zealand’s eligibility rules.

Souness joins several notable players making the switch across the Tasman, including Kelly Jackson, Maddy Gordon, and Kate Heffernan. Additionally, Grace Nweke is set to return for her second season in Australia. Former Silver Ferns Te Paea Selby-Rickit and Jane Watson will also be part of the Australian competition next year, having opted out of selection for New Zealand.

After narrowly missing inclusion in the recent 2025/26 Silver Ferns squad, Souness expressed her excitement about the opportunity. “I want to keep playing for a long time, but at my age, I wasn’t sure how much longer I’d have for this type of opportunity,” she stated. “When it came along, I just had to do it. Playing in the SSN means competing against the best, which will help me grow my game.”

Souness has been an integral part of the Pulse since 2015, aside from a brief stint with the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic in 2020. Her departure adds to a significant reshaping of the Pulse, which has now lost three players to the Australian league. Pulse shooter Tiana Metuarau is also leaving the franchise, reportedly heading to the United Kingdom.

Transitioning to the Australian league presents a new challenge for Souness. “I’m very nervous but also very excited,” she remarked. “It’s not just about netball; it’s a life experience that allows me to step out of my comfort zone.”

Giants head coach Nerida Stewart praised Souness’s potential impact on the team. “Whitney is an incredibly smart and dynamic athlete who brings a high level of international experience and calmness under pressure. We believe she can strengthen our midcourt and enhance our overall performance.”

With 136 national league matches under her belt, Souness reflected on her time with the Pulse, saying, “The yellow dress has meant everything to me. It’s bittersweet to leave, but if we want to grow, we sometimes have to embrace discomfort.”

Pulse coach Anna Andrews-Tasola also acknowledged Souness’s contributions, stating, “Beyond her athletic brilliance, Whitney’s connection to our community runs deep. She’s been more than a player; she’s been a role model, a mentor, and an inspiration to countless young athletes in the Central Zone and her local Porirua community.”

As the netball landscape evolves, Souness’s move highlights the increasing trend of New Zealand players seeking opportunities in Australia’s competitive leagues. The Giants and Souness are poised for an exciting season ahead.