Experienced New Zealand midcourter Whitney Souness has signed with the GIANTS for the 2026 Suncorp Super Netball season.

Souness makes the move across the Tasman after a decorated career in New Zealand’s ANZ Premiership, most recently starring for the Central Pulse.

Known for her elite speed, agility, and creative vision with ball in hand, the 28-year-old will be a major asset in the GIANTS’ push for renewed success in 2026.

A Pulse stalwart since debuting in 2015, Souness has long been recognised as one of New Zealand’s most exciting midcourters.

Her sharp change of direction, ability to offload in the air, disruptive defensive presence, and relentless engine earned plaudits across the competition.

On the international stage, Souness has represented the Silver Ferns since 2017, featuring at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the 2023 Netball World Cup, and during the 2024 international season. She was also a key member of the 2018 FAST5 Ferns, who claimed the World

Series title.

Her growing maturity, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure have seen her evolve into a dependable and versatile midcourt leader.

GIANTS head coach Nerida Stewart said she was thrilled to welcome a player of Souness’s calibre to the club.

“Whitney is an incredibly smart and dynamic athlete who brings with her a high level of international experience and a real calmness in pressure moments,” Stewart said.

“She’s someone who can seamlessly link attack and defence, and her ability to control tempo and deliver with precision is exactly what we need to strengthen our midcourt.

“We’re really looking forward to seeing how she thrives in the Super Netball environment and what she can bring to our group both on and off the court.”

Reflecting on the move, Souness said she was ready for a new challenge.

“I can’t wait to join the GIANTS for the 2026 season,” Souness said.

“This move feels like the right time to further my skills, experience a new coaching style and grow within a new team environment.  I’m looking forward to challenging myself against top competition and learning as much as I can along the way. “

“This is an opportunity I’m really thankful for and ready to make the most of.”

Souness completes the GIANTS’ list for 2026, joining fellow New Zealander Jane Watson, dynamic midcourter Casey Adamson and dual premiership player, Lucy Austin as the new additions for next season.

She will line up alongside returning GIANTS Sophie Dwyer, Matisse Letherbarrow, Hope White, Amy Sligar, Erin O’Brien, and Jodi-Ann Ward, with Tilly McDonell joining the squad as a temporary replacement player.