Netball: Dame Noeline Taurua plants seed for former Silver Ferns defender Anna Harrison's international return

Anna Harrison's been a big part of the Northern Stars resurgence in this year's ANZ Premiership.

The Stars have five wins in six matches this season, with the former international, 38, providing a steadying, experienced head at the back of the court.

And her first season back in nearly four years has caught the eye of the Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua.

"She gains the ball, she turns over the ball, her competitive side, I love her manner and I think that's why the Stars are doing so well," Taurua tells Newshub.

Harrison's influence at the Auckland franchise has lifted them to the top of the competition and she could yet have an influence once again at the highest level, with Taurua "hopeful" Harrison considers an unlikely return to international netball.

"We’re waiting. The normal process is that a note goes out to the managers with each team and by the end of the month, we should know who's available.

"I am hopeful - it'd be fantastic."

Harrison's experience could certainly come in handy for the Ferns. The nucleus of their 2019 World Cup-winning side has retired and the team will be without captain Ameliane Ekenasio this year, as she awaits the birth of her second child.

Harrison's timing could be perfect.

"I think it's fantastic for her to come back to the Stars for the experience she is bringing," says Taurua. "She's growing those other ones." 

But Dame Noeline is not the only person keen to know what Harrison might do.

Stars coach Kiri Willis has also quizzed Harrison about her international ambitions, but is keeping the response to herself.

Whatever Harrison's answer, her Stars teammates believe she can again be a success at the top level.

"She's still got it," says defender Elle Temu.

The former beach volleyball international became famous for her 'Harrison Hoist', where a netball defender is lifted rugby lineout-style to intimidate a shooter.

A World Cup winner (2003) and a two-time Commonwealth Games champion (2006 & 2010), Harrison's a proven performer and with a bit of luck, she could be again reaching for more than just the Stars.