Sunshine Coast Lightning captain Steph Wood has retired from international netball just days after the Diamonds’ latest World Cup triumph.
While the 31-year-old goaler will continue captaining the Lightning in Super Netball, Wood will step away from the Diamonds after seven years in the national team.
The Diamonds dominated England in the final last Sunday, winning 61-45 to clinch their 12th World Cup title.
Wood was also in the team that won last year’s Commonwealth Games gold medal.
She played 56 Tests and became vice-captain of the national side two years ago.
“It was a dream of mine to play for the Diamonds and the past seven years have been amazing,” Wood said.
“It feels like the right time for me to make way for the next generation of Diamonds.
“I am very content with what I have achieved and given to international netball.”
Australia coach Stacey Marinkovich said Wood had made significant contributions to the team’s on-court success, as well as their ‘sisters in arms’ culture.
“She has shown a unique craft with the ball – she has been the playmaker for the Diamonds attack end for many years, causing a headache to every opposition we’ve faced,” she said.
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