Sarah McMillan/cvnznews.com
Netball New Zealand has chosen the private franchise proposal led by businesswoman Anna Mowbray and former All Black Ali Williams as its preferred model for a new elite domestic competition in 2027, according to reporting first published by RNZ.
RNZ revealed that the national body’s board reached the decision at a meeting last week, selecting the Mowbray–Williams bid ahead of other options considered to replace the ANZ Premiership. The organisation is now working with the pair to finalise commercial, broadcast and structural details for the competition.
A source involved in the discussions told RNZ the decision marks a turning point after months of uncertainty. “We’re at a point where this is the decision that’s been made. Now we’re working at getting the pieces of the puzzle in place,” the source said.
The private ownership model would see the league operate independently of Netball New Zealand, with the ownership group responsible for commercial and operational arrangements. RNZ previously reported that Mowbray and Williams — who hold a 15% stake in A‑League club Auckland FC — initially proposed a 2028 launch, later accelerating plans amid concerns about the domestic player landscape.
Netball New Zealand has not publicly confirmed the decision but is expected to make an announcement later this week.
The move comes as the sport faces significant financial pressure, including a $3.7 million loss last season, and an unprecedented exodus of top talent overseas. With no clarity on the 2027 competition, players have signed contracts in Australia and the UK, prompting Netball NZ to temporarily relax Silver Ferns eligibility rules.
Thirteen New Zealand players have joined Australia’s Super Netball competition, including stars Grace Nweke and Kate and Georgia Heffernan, while others have opted for retirement.
Newly appointed Netball NZ chief executive Jennah Wootten told RNZ her priority is establishing a “strong, sustainable and compelling” league that can attract players back home.
