Bongiwe Msomi makes Wasps Netball return

Wasps Netball have announced the return of mid-court dynamo Bongiwe Msomi after spending one season away from the team.

Fan-favourite Msomi was an integral member of Wasps’ Superleague winning squad in 2017 – before moving to the Suncorp Super Netball League to play for Adelaide Thunderbirds last season.

The South Africa national captain, known for her lightning speed and agility, will add additional firepower to a mid-court group which already includes England star Jade Clarke.

Msomi, who can play at Centre or Wing Attack, already has two Superleague winners’ medals to her name and will be a key player as Mel Mansfield’s team look to defend their title.

When she was last in black-and-gold in 2017, Msomi was named in the Vitality Netball Superleague All Star XI and also voted as Wasps Fans Player of the Season.

Her arrival comes as a string of players make the move from Australia and New Zealand to play for teams in the UK and Msomi says she feels at ‘home’ when she pulls on the black-and-gold dress.

“As soon as I spoke to Mel about coming back to Wasps the decision was made in my head immediately,” said Msomi.

“It feels like family, the supporters are so important to me and I felt a great connection on and off the court with them last time I was there. The league is even more competitive now than it was two years ago and that influenced my decision to come back. The talent in the league, particularly in the midcourt, continues to grow and playing against some of the best players in the world will only help me to improve as a player.”

“It will be a new season, experience and challenge. I’m looking forward to getting started and seeing how far we can go. I feel very lucky to be coming back and I think the thing I’m looking forward to the most is feeling like I’m back at home.”

The 30-year-old is one of the final pieces of the jigsaw for Wasps’ Head Coach Mansfield, who has now named 11 out of the 12 players for squad next season.

Mansfield said: “We are delighted to have secured Bongi’s services for next season, she will bring so much to our team and I know the Wasps fans will be excited to see her back in black-and-gold.

“She always plays with a smile on her face and is popular on and off the court with teammates and fans. Bongi had a huge impact in the community last time she was here too. Her speed and agility are unrivalled and brings with her a wealth of international experience. Our mid-court maestro is back and we couldn’t be happier.”