Scans have confirmed that GIANTS Netball shooter Kiera Austin suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her knee in round one.
The incident occurred in the second quarter of the GIANTS’ win over the Thunderbirds in Adelaide, with Austin’s right knee buckling under her on landing.
Scans on Tuesday have confirmed a ruptured ACL for the Diamond with the 23-year-old to undergo a knee reconstruction in the coming weeks.
GIANTS coach Julie Fitzgerald said the team would rally behind GIANT #13.
“We’re obviously devastated for Kiera,” Fitzgerald said.
“She’s coming off her best season of Suncorp Super Netball and has proven her ability on the international stage in the recent Constellation Cup.
“She’s approached this challenge with her trademark positivity and her GIANTS family are rallying around her during this tough time.
“Kiera already has her sights firmly focused on coming back bigger and better in the 2022 SSN season and looking ahead to the Commonwealth Games next year.”
Austin’s rehabilitation is expected to take around 12 months with the GIANTS to name a replacement player in the coming days.
The GIANTS return home to open Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney Olympic Park in round two with a clash against the Collingwood Magpies on Saturday at 3pm.
