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“Being able to play in the best competition in the world is a real privilege, and it’s something I’m incredibly excited about,” Poi said. “The Firebirds have such a rich history, and I can’t wait to meet everyone, get stuck in and be part of what’s ahead.” Wills said Poi’s signing adds pace, experience and leadership to the club’s midcourt group. “Kimiora is a genuine game-changer through the middle of the court,” Wills said. “She brings unbelievable speed, fitness and creativity in attack, and at the same time she’s relentless defensively. “To add a Commonwealth Games gold medallist with her leadership pedigree and international experience to our midcourt is a huge boost for us heading into 2027, and we can’t wait to see what she brings to our environment.” Stythe, a fellow Commonwealth Games gold medallist, made her Silver Ferns debut against Scotland last year and was part of a Steel back court that reached the ANZ Premiership final. She previously made titles with the Mystics. Meanwhile, former Silver Ferns captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio has signed with the Fever. New Zealand goal attack Georgia Heffernan has penned a two-year deal with the Sunshine Coast Lightning, where current Ferns captain Karin Burger has re-signed. Kiwi players are also flocking to the UK’s Netball Super League. Mystics defender Charlotte Manley has signed with the Leeds Rhinos for next year. Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic shooter Saviour Tui and Mainland Tactix midcourter Holly Mather have signed with the Welsh Dragons. Southern Steel defender Jess Milne will join former Silver Fern Tiana Metuarau, who has re-signed at the Birmingham Panthers. There is no confirmed future for the ANZ Premiership. Netball New Zealand has been issued a proposal by Auckland FC investors Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams for a privatised competition in 2028, with a different professional league for next year to bridge the gap. Netball New Zealand maintains it has multiple options available for next year, but the Players Association says the only other plans it knows about were for an amateur competition. Nathan Limm has been a journalist with Newstalk ZB and the NZ Herald since 2020. He covered the Netball World Cup in Cape Town in 2023, hosts The Big League Podcast and commentates rugby and netball for Gold Sport.