After 18 months out of international play following the birth of her second child, elegant shooter Ameliaranne Ekenasio made a successful return to the top flight while also reclaiming the captaincy for the 2022 Taini Jamison Trophy series against Jamaica.

A confident long-range shooter, Ekenasio was a key cog in the Silver Ferns 2019 World Cup-winning triumph and returns for the 2023 edition in South Africa as captain.

Born in Queensland but of Ngapuhi heritage, the stylish Ekenasio moved to New Zealand in 2014 after coming through the Australian system. She spent four years (2011-14) with the Queensland Firebirds but struggled for regular court time and was snapped up by the Central Pulse for the 2015 ANZ Championship.

More consistent game time paid dividends, a growing confidence resulting in impressive individual performances for the athletic shooter with the spectacular high-arching shot.

Able to play both shooting roles, Ekenasio is an excellent mover, with quick hands and feet, is good in the tight spaces and has an unwavering willingness to put the shots up from anywhere. Just months after the birth of her first child, Ekenasio made her return to elite level netball with the FAST5 Ferns in late 2017.

A tall, agile and graceful athlete, Ekenasio gained her first selection to the Silver Ferns in 2014.