Trio pleased to be back together

Southern Steel goal attack Te Paea Selby-Rickit trains at the Edgar Centre last week as she...
Southern Steel goal attack Te Paea Selby-Rickit. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH
The last time the Silver Ferns beat Australia three Southern Steel players had big performances.

It was also one of the last times they played together in a black dress.

Nearly two years after that Quad Series victory in Invercargill, Shannon Saunders, Gina Crampton and Te Paea Selby-Rickit all feature together as Silver Ferns once more.

Since then, all have been out of the squad at different stages - although as Saunders said, together they "finished on good terms".

So when they were given the news while driving together on Wednesday, the trio had an extra special shared celebration.

While working their way back into the squad was exciting, it was the present on which they were focusing.

"I don't think you really focus on that," Selby-Rickit said of having to re-earn their spots.

"It's really nice to be here together. We've played together for a long time, so to be able to go to a pinnacle event together is really special."

Both Selby-Rickit and Saunders were part of last year's disastrous Commonwealth Games campaign.

However, while that had been a tough time, both were feeling refreshed and they were excited to be involved again.

Crampton was a surprise omission from that squad, although was recalled soon after.

Much had been said about the need for change in the environment and she had noticed a difference since her return.

"I think it's probably more clear on what's expected in the environment.

"The values are pretty clearly laid out and she [coach Noeline Taurua] made sure of that from the get-go.

"I guess as well we've got such a short time together, people get in the know pretty fast and try to do it.

"I think that's good and everyone is well aware of that, so that's nice and hopefully everyone is on the same path."

 

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