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The Southern Steel have received some rough news with the playoffs approaching.
Captain Kimiora Poi has been ruled out of the remainder of the ANZ Premiership season.
The influential midcourter suffered a calf injury during round seven and, following medical assessment and specialist advice, it has been determined she will now focus on her rehabilitation.
Powerful midcourter Jessie Laga’aia, who is on loan from the Queensland Firebirds, will remain with the Steel for this weekend’s round nine game against the Stars in Auckland.
Poi, ever the professional, is taking a pragmatic approach to the cruel news.
‘‘It’s just one of those things that happens in sport and I can’t really do anything about it now except stay positive, focus on my rehab and keep showing up for my team,’’ she said.
‘‘Bring ruled out is gutting given how close we are to the finals series. The hardest thing about it is not being able to play with my team-mates and be out on court to compete for that title.’’
Poi will continue in a leadership role courtside.
The Steel have secured a spot in the finals series regardless of the outcome of their final two regular season games due to a superior win record over their closest rivals, the Stars.
‘‘I 100% back them to go all the way and I can’t wait to watch them smash it.’’
Steel head coach Wendy Frew said while losing a player of Poi’s calibre was ‘‘incredibly tough’’, the team’s focus remained on supporting her recovery and continuing their strong season.
‘‘Kimi is been such an integral part of our team and naturally we’re disappointed that she won’t be able to take part in the playoffs because she absolutely deserves to be there out on court,’’ Frew said.
‘‘We’ve worked hard to put ourselves in a position to compete for another title and I know the rest of the squad will step up and embrace that challenge.
‘‘Our priority now is ensuring Kimi has the time and support she needs for a successful rehab while we get on with the job.
‘‘Given just one point separates the top three, a home final is well within reach and we will be doing everything in our power to lock in home court advantage.’’
After Sunday’s away clash, the Steel return home to Stadium Southland to play the Tactix on June 14. — Allied Media