Netball: Silver Ferns welcome back defenders Kayla Johnson, Phoenix Karaka for England Quad Series

Defenders Kayla Johnson and Phoenix Karaka are in line to make their Silver Ferns comebacks, both named as part of Dame Noeline Taurua's 14-strong squad for next month's Quad Series in England.

The Quad Series will represent the first time the Silver Ferns have travelled abroad in over two years, and will serve as vital preparation for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Both Johnson and Karaka return to the Silver Ferns' squad for the first time since welcoming children in 2020, after impressing at the team's week-long camp held in Wellington.

"As new mums this Silver Ferns camp has been a new experience for Phoenix and Kayla," coach Taurua says. 

"But both athletes made the most of their opportunities on court and deserve their place back in the black dress with the chance to push their claim for a spot at the Commonwealth Games.

"It hasn't been an easy road for either one of them but that determination, experience and desire to wear the Silver Fern stood out this week."

Elsewhere, the pair of Northern Mystics shooter Filda Vui and Northern Stars midcourter Mila Reuleu-Buchanan have also been handed their maiden Silver Ferns call-ups, also impressing Taurua during the selection camp.

"Both Filda and Mila really put their hands up for selection with the energy and explosive play that they delivered this week," Taurua adds. 

"They have demonstrated the PURE values which are at the core of being a Silver Fern and I'm really excited to see how they perform against world class opponents."

Gina Crampton will lead the side in place of regular captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio, who last month welcomed her second child. 

Defender Katrina Rore is also absent after giving birth to daughter Lilybud earlier this year, while Jane Watson is another absentee, expecting her first child in the new year

Midcourter Maddy Gordon is also missing with a knee injury, while Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Jamie Hume, Kate Heffernan and Peta Toeava were all overlooked for the Quad Series.

The Quad Series will be held in London from January 16-20, with the Silver Ferns to face Australia, South Africa and hosts England.

Silver Ferns: Gina Crampton (c), Karin Burger, Sulu Fitzpatrick, Kayla Johnson, Kelly Jury, Phoenix Karaka, Claire Kersten, Tiana Metuarau, Grace Nweke, Mila Reuelu-Buchanan, Shannon Saunders, Filda Vui, Maia Wilson, Sam Winders.