Netball: Latu cleared to play for Mystics

Northern Mystics shooter Catherine Latu. Photo / Getty Images

Northern Mystics have been granted an exemption to field former Samoa shooter Catherine Latu in the Transtasman Netball League (TTNL) for the 2009 championship.

The dispensation was granted to the Mystics following the International Federation of Netball's (IFNA's) ruling to decline an application to change her current eligibility status.

TTNL general manager Anthony Everard said in granting the dispensation, TTNL was acting in a consistent manner with the intent of the eligibility rules, which are in place to protect and enhance the pathway of New Zealanders towards Silver Ferns.

"There were a number of factors involved in this decision - Catharine was born in New Zealand, she is a New Zealand citizen and has now indicated formally to Netball New Zealand (NNZ) her playing future rests in New Zealand only.

"While IFNA denied the change to Cathrine's current eligibility status, she had provided an assurance to NNZ that she will stand down from all international competition for the IFNA required period of four years in order that she may be considered for New Zealand selection in the future," he said.

The Northern Mystics' first game of the season will be against last year's runners-up, Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic, on April 6 in Auckland.

- NZPA