The captain of the University of the Free State Kovsies, Ané Retief, is over the moon after being called up to the Proteas for the first time.

Retief recently represented South Africa in the Fast5 series, however, she has been named in the squad for the upcoming Test series against England abroad.

Kovsies has a rich history when it comes to international netball and they regularly have numerous players in the national setup. These include the likes of Lefebre Rademan and Khanyisa Chawane.

Retief told OFM Sport that she just wants to learn as much as possible.

“We will play in Tests in Manchester as well as in Nottingham next month. I'm just really looking forward to being surrounded by the best of the best - to learn and to gain that experience.

“Also, it's an opportunity for me to receive my first cap. As with any athlete it's an absolute dream to represent my country.

“I just want to contribute to the team with the dynamic I can bring and I really just want to make the most of the experience.”

The first Test between England and South Africa will be played on 5 December in Manchester. The second and third Tests will be played on 9 and 10 December in Nottingham.

Proteas squad - Khanyisa Chawane, Boitumelo Mahloko, Kamogelo Maseko, Phumza Maweni, Bongiwe Msomi (captain), Rolene Streutker, Refiloe Nketsa, Karla Pretorius, Lefébre Rademan, Jeanté Strydom, Nicola Smith, Ané Retief, Owethu Ngubane, Ine-Marí Venter, Nicholé Taljaard

Morgan Piek OFM Sport