Netball: Jamaican Malysha Kelly signs on for champions Southern Steel

Malysha Kelly of the Southern Force looks to pass during the Australian Netball League match against Western Sting. Photo/Getty Images

Southern Steel have boosted their defensive stocks, signing Jamaican international Malysha Kelly for next year's national netball premiership.

The 1.85m defender says she's looking forward to adding new skills to an already extensive repertoire.

"I've always wanted to learn to play the New Zealand style as a defender," she says. "To me, it is the most attractive one ... I find it quite intriguing,"

Kelly continues the Steel's Jamaican connection, after shooter Jhaniele Fowler- Reid ended a five-year stint to sign with West Coast Fever in the Australian Super Netball competition.

Steel coach Reinga Bloxham says Kelly will add a new dynamic on defence.

"She's a very aerial player and our style will give her time to attack the ball in the air.

"We like to use space, look for the ball and hunt, and I think it's exciting that she is that type of player."

The defending champions have also re-signed defender Abby Erwood and shooter Jennifer O'Connell in rounding out their roster for next season.