Laura Langman in talks with Netball NZ regarding Silver Ferns return

  • 13/12/2017

Midcourt ace Laura Langman has entered into discussions with Netball New Zealand regarding a potential return to the Silver Ferns fold.

The 31-year-old hasn't played for the national side since shifting across the Tasman to join the Sunshine Coast Lightning in 2016, ending a staggering streak of 141-consecutive Tests in the black dress.

She's since requested and been granted a release from the Lightning for 2018 and is on a self-imposed break from the game at all levels.

After a tumultuous year for the Silver Ferns which included a loss to England and a demoralising 4-0 whitewashing at the hands of the Australians in the Constellation Cup, the drums have begun to beat even louder for the veteran centre to make an international comeback.

Ferns coach Janine Southby admits the signs are positive for Langman's eventual return but adds there will be no sign of her on the court in the immediate future, including their upcoming quad series in January.

"Laura and I have been talking.  We looked at all options, she's chosen to take some time out initially and beyond that time out we'll keep talking," Southby told Newshub.

"At this point you won’t see her name in this series, but beyond that I think there's potential for her to come back into the Ferns group."

Southby is reluctant to impose any timeframes for a return, although the likely target is the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April.

Langman hasn't played for NZ since 2016.
Langman hasn't played for NZ since 2016. Photo credit: Getty

In order to qualify for those games Langman would need to be signed with a New Zealand franchise, and Southby confirms that conversations along those lines have already begun.

"That's something we've talked about… Netball NZ and Laura have been talking and working through what that can look like."

While the reasons behind the Hamiltonian's hiatus remain unclear, Southby stresses the importance of respecting her space during her time away from the sport.

"I think Laura has her reasons for those and they're personal to her and I think we need to respect that they need to stay that way.

"When she's had that time and a bit of a break and a refresher, we'll get back to the talking of where things are at."

Silver Ferns captain Katrina Grant, a close friend and longtime teammate of Langman's, echoes those sentiments.

"She's going through what she needs to go through, having a holiday and spending some time with friends and family in NZ. She can clear her mind and come back to NZ netball when she's ready.

Grant has kept in contact with her former colleague, revealing the two-time Commonwealth gold medallist had been keeping active and among competition.

"She's such an athlete. She's kept training, doing triathlons," Grant said.

"She's doing what she needs to do for her own headspace and her game. Hopefully she's well and can come back whenever she wants.

Newshub.