South African international Ané Retief has been named as a temporary replacement player for Nicola Smith until she recovers from a broken arm which she sustained during the first test of the Sunshine Series in Jamaica.
Twenty-six year old Ané represented South Africa in the Fast5 Netball World Series, before making her first cap for South Africa in October 2024 against Malawi. She also recently played in the Vitality Netball Nations Cup, where they were defeated by the England Roses in the final.
Franchise Director and Head Coach, Karen Greig, said, “I’m delighted that we have been able to secure Ané as a temporary replacement player. In what has been a difficult period for us with injuries, I appreciate the support of the Netball Super League in allowing us to utilise her in our squad until Nicola fully recovers from her injury.”
“Ané is an exciting defender, reads the game really well, hustles the shooters making it difficult for them to settle, and she has impressed me in what I have seen of her representing South Africa. We appreciate her dedication to take this opportunity at such short notice and welcome her to the Thunder Family!”
Ané said, “I’m truly excited about the opportunity to be part of Manchester Thunder. What a force to be reckoned with! I’m looking forward to advance my understanding of the game and to contribute my fighting spirit to their success.”
You can watch Ané at our highly anticipated game against Loughborough Lightning at the AO Arena on Sunday 16th March. For tickets for all our of 2025 home fixtures, click here.