Netball: Aussie captain back in the game

Sharelle McMahon. Photo / Getty Images

After struggling with a knee injury for much of last year's transtasman league, Vixens co-captain Sharelle McMahon has issued an ominous warning to opposition defenders: she's back and raring to go.

The Australian Diamonds skipper missed last year's international season after having arthoscopic surgery on the battered knee that hampered her for much of the season.

It was a tricky road back for McMahon who was desperate to get back on court and regain her fitness, but also had to be careful not to overload her troublesome knee.

But she said she struck the right balance and was feeling refreshed.

"It's feeling really great now actually. I've had to do a slightly modified programme for the last few months and I was a little bit concerned about fitness levels and still making sure my knee felt good - that was, I guess, the balancing act that we had to work with," the 31-year-old said.

"It seems like we've got it pretty right because out on court my fitness feels at a good level and my knee is also coping really well."

While the fiercely competitive McMahon found it tough watching the international action from the sidelines, there were some benefits.

"I've had since July off, so it's a long time for me as normally I'd be backing up with Aussie games. I've had a really great break, I've had a holiday with my husband over to Europe so I'm feeling really refreshed."

Which is probably just as well, as McMahon doesn't plan on slowing down now.