Defending world champions New Zealand were dealt a blow on Monday when shooter Grace Nweke was ruled out of the rest of the 2023 Netball World Cup.
The Silver Ferns face hosts South Africa in Cape Town on Wednesday.
Tiana Metuarau has been called up as her replacement.
Nweke injured her knee in the pool match against Singapore on Sunday, and her loss comes just as the tournament enters the crossover stage before the knockout matches.
Absolutely devastating news, New Zealand have announced Grace Nweke has been ruled out of the Netball World Cup after scans confirmed a partial tear in her patella tendon. Travelling reserve Tiana Metuarau will now replace her.
— Sky Sports Netball (@SkyNetball) July 31, 2023
We wish Grace a speedy recovery?? pic.twitter.com/GhiPephIx1
NIGERIAN HERITAGE
Born in New Zealand to Nigerian parents, Nweke’s absence will be sorely felt the Ferns. She was the Player of the Series last time she was in Cape Town for the Quad Series earlier this year that also featured the hosts, England and New Zealand.
Her team have won three from three at the 2023 World Cup, and next face Wales (Monday), SA (Wednesday) and Jamaica (Thursday) ahead of the placing matches.