WASPS Netball look set to be a force not to be reckoned with next season after confirming the signings of South African international Bongiwe Msomi and experienced goal shooter Rachel Dunn this week.
Msomi has previously played in South Africa and played a pivotal role for her country at last year’s World Cup in Australia, helping South Africa to victory against Wales and giving a spirited performance in the 62-46 defeat to England.
The pacey 28-year-old, who can play in centre and wing attack, also competed at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the 2011 World Netball Series.
Her arrival comes just days after Wasps Netball secured the services of last season’s Superleague top scorer, Rachel Dunn.
Dunn is linking back up with Wasps Director of Netball Tamsin Greenway, having both played together during her seven-year stay at league champions Surrey Storm.
The 33-year-old, who scored 474 goals from 570 attempts last year, is a full England international and has represented her country at both the 2006 and 2010 Commonwealth Games, as well as the 2011 and 2015 World Championships.
Both players make up the final pieces of Greenway’s star-studded jigsaw with 11 players moving to the Ricoh Arena ahead of the new Superleague season which starts in February.
“I first saw Bongi back at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow,” said Greenway. “She is such an incredible athlete, fantastic leader and quality player, which is why I was so keen to bring her back over and play at Wasps.
“She adds another dimension to the mid court and I know she’ll fit right into our Wasps environment.”
“I’m absolutely delighted that Rachel has joined us here at Wasps. It is without question she has been – and continues to be – the best shooter in the league and she brings so much to the team both on and off the court.
“Having played with Rachel from the very beginning it’s great to have her beside me for the new challenge ahead at Wasps.”
Greenway now has just one more slot to fill to complete her team of 12 with other signings made over the off season including attacking sensation George Fisher and Australian Samantha May.
Hannah Reid, Francesca Williams, Amy Flanagan, Josie Huckle, Sophia Candappa and Natalie Haythornthwaite have also signed up for the 2017 season.
Greenway added: “Pre-season is nearly upon us and I can’t wait to get out on to the court to work with such an exciting and talented line-up.”
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