Captain Jo Harten will miss the GIANTS’ opening round match against the Sunshine Coast Lightning this Sunday.
Harten underwent a knee arthroscope at the end of January to repair ongoing issues in her left knee.
The surgery was successful and Harten is now six weeks post-surgery.
Harten returned to team training earlier this week, completing her first full week of training since the operation.
In the interest of ensuring Harten is fully fit and at her best for the entirety of the season and beyond, a decision was made for Harten to sit out the round one match.
One of two inaugural players at the club, this will be the first time the 33-year-old has missed a Suncorp Super Netball game for the GIANTS.
“Jo approached her rehabilitation with her usual professionalism and determination and I can only commend her,” said Head Coach Julie Fitzgerald.
“However, as a High Performance team, in conjunction with Jo, we made the decision for her to not play this weekend. 2023 is yet another big year of netball commitments and we thought this decision would not only prolong her performances across this calendar year, but be the right decision for the longevity of her career.
“She is back playing some really exciting netball – the best we’ve seen her play in the past six months – and I’m excited to see what she’ll bring when she returns to the court next weekend.”
Harten will sit out the round one match but is expected to return next weekend for the GIANTS’ round two clash against the West Coast Fever at Ken Rosewall Arena.
Maddie Hay will also miss the GIANTS’ opening round match due to a knee injury.
Training Partners Ang Frketic and Erin O’Brien have been named in the team for this weekend’s match
