Northumbria Name More Fast 5 Picks

Team Northumbria have swooped to sign one of Netball Superleague’s most exciting shooters ahead of September’s British Fast 5 All Stars event.

Sophie Hankin announced she would be leaving the Hertfordshire Mavericks last week.

And TN have wasted no time in snapping up the versatile offensive player - equally at home playing goal shooter, goal attack and wing attack - prior to the London O2 Arena showdown.

Hankin will be joined in the 10-strong TN squad by a familiar face to Sport Central fans after it was revealed Brie Grierson has bagged the final domestic spot.

“Sophie joined Mavericks in 2011 and has developed into a formidable force in the shooting circle,” said head coach TeAroha Keenan.

“I feel she will be the perfect fit for our Fast 5 roster and she boasts the kind of mobility and shooting range we need to make our mark.

“Brie gets better with every season and will relish the opportunity to test herself against some of the top players in the world on the big stage.

“I’m really pleased with how our squad is shaping up and I think our fans will be very excited by the final two pieces in the TN jigsaw ahead of the Fast 5s.”

Keenan will reveal her final two players - TN’s Worldwide All-Star picks - tomorrow.

And it is understood the playcaller has strengthened at both ends of the court, recruiting players with proven international pedigree.

The British Fast 5 All Stars event brings together the best eight NSL franchises in Britain.

And the shortened version of netball promises thrills and spills from the off with 12 minute matches and instant elimination from the group stage for any side that picks up two defeats.

Players will score five points for goals converted from outside the conventional shooting circle - a feature designed to encourage ambitious long-range attempts.

The winners will pick up a cheque for £25,000 with the runners-up guaranteed £20,000 and the losing semi-finalists £12,500 apiece.

Tickets are on sale now with Sport Central fans able to sit in a special TN zone. The event takes place from 5pm-10pm on Saturday September 23 and tickets are available from www.theo2.co.uk