Netball: Scarlett's switch set to trigger bidding war

Anna Scarlett. Photo / Getty Images

Former Silver Fern turned beach volleyball star Anna Scarlett's decision to give up on her Olympic dream and return to netball is set to start a bidding war among franchises to secure her services for 2011.

With England coach Sue Hawkins wanting her test stars to stay at home next season in preparation for the world championships, experienced defenders will be at a premium next year.

At present three English defenders play in the transtasman league - Sonia Mkoloma (Swifts), Geva Mentor (Thunderbirds) and Ama Agbeze (Pulse) - and their absence will create a shortage on both sides of the Tasman.

But with Scarlett intent on fighting her way back into the Silver Ferns, she will need to play for a New Zealand franchise to be eligible to play for the Ferns, as per Netball New Zealand's selection policy.

The Northern Mystics have signalled their interest in the 1.87m defender and they look to have the inside running in securing her services given the former New Zealand international has been based in Auckland for several years. And with the Mystics premier sponsor LG also sponsoring Scarlett and Susan Blundell on the beach volleyball circuit, that existing relationship will also help the Auckland side's bid.

But after a dismal season, the Canterbury Tactix are expected to be aggressive in their recruitment drive for 2011, and a rangy defender will be one item on their lengthy shopping list. The Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic could also be on the hunt for a top-quality defender to complement Ferns star Casey Williams.

While Scarlett will have no problem breaking into the transtasman league, reclaiming a spot in the Silver Ferns will be a different story.

The Ferns have two pinnacle events over the next 12 months, and Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken is keen to keep as much consistency as possible in her selections between the Commonwealth Games in October, and the world championships in July 2011.

It means only injury or a serious drop-off in form from one of the incumbents would open the door for Scarlett to make that world championship side.

However, with Aitken likely to rest her top players after the Commonwealth Games, there is a chance we may see Scarlett back in the black dress later this year for the World Fastnet series in England, although these games do not carry test match status.