Netball: Harrison ruled out of England encounter

Anna Harrison's return to the Silver Ferns has been delayed. Photo / photosport.nz

A calf injury has put Anna Harrison's Silver Ferns comeback on hold.

The star defender has been ruled out of Saturday's Quad Series opener against England after picking up a calf strain in training today.

Silver Ferns management will make a decision on Harrison's availability for the remainder of the series tomorrow following further assessment from the medical staff.

Harrison, who has not played for the Ferns since their disastrous Commonwealth Games campaign in 2014, earned re-selection in the national line-up after taking time out for the birth of her second child.

The injury is a frustrating setback for the veteran defender, who has endured a string of calf problems in the past, but had worked hard this season to stay on top of any issues.

After an impressive season with the Mystics, the 33-year-old trialled exceptionally well for the Silver Ferns and was tipped to be one of the stand-outs for the Quad Series.

Tactix defender Jess Moulds looms as the most likely contender to replace Harrison in the 12-strong test side for Saturday's match, given she is the only remaining defender in the wider New Zealand squad. The other possible options are NZ A squad members Jane Watson (Steel) and Holly Fowler (Mystics).

A replacement player will be confirmed tomorrow.