Netball NZ deny Tactix second import

The Canterbury Tactix won't be getting a second import for next years ANZ Championship. Photo / Getty Images

Netball New Zealand have blocked the Mainland Tactix bid to field a second import player in next year's ANZ Championship.

For the past five seasons the Tactix have been granted exemption to sign two overseas-based imports, whereas other franchises are only allowed one. The rule was introduced initially to give teams that have finished at the bottom of the league ladder for two consecutive seasons a competitive leg-up. But with the Tactix struggling to recruit experienced players to the region in the wake of the Christchurch earthquake, league bosses have continued to offer the Tactix assistance even in seasons when they haven't finished at the foot of the ladder.

But the Tactix have not always used that import spot wisely. While Malawi shooter Mwai Kumwenda has been a brilliant gain for the side, the signing of veteran Australian defender Demelza Fellowes as their second import this season was not so successful.

Fellowes struggled to make an impact for the Canterbury side, angering those in Netball New Zealand's heirarchy, who considered it a waste of a development opportunity for a younger player.

Netball Mainland CEO Brigit Hearn said she was disappointed at Netball NZ's decision not to support their application for a second import next season.

"We are clearly not at all happy with the decision but it is one that we have to live with and we will continue to look to develop our young talent," Hearn said.

"I have absolute faith in the abilities of the players we are recruiting for 2016 and we are well down the path to retaining a core group from 2015 who showed their winning ability against the Kia Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic."

The decision by NNZ will bring all 10 ANZ Championship teams into alignment with one import player only.

Mainland Tactix head coach Sue Hawkins said Netball NZ's decision lacked recognition of the contributions and experience an import player brings both on and off the court.

The Tactix have confirmed four signings ahead of next season; Kumwenda, midcourter Nicola Mackle, shooter Gemma Hazeldine and new recruit Olivia Coughlan. More signings are expected to be announced this week.