Fowler signs ANZ contract

Robert Bailey, Gleaner Writer

Jamaica's goalshooter Jhaniele Fowler has signed a contract with the Adelaide Thunderbirds to represent them in the upcoming ANZ Netball Championships.

The Thunderbirds, who confirmed the deal on their website Adelaidenow.com yesterday, said they are hoping that Fowler can take the final spot on the 12-person roster for the 2012 championships.

The 22-year-old Fowler, who was the most prolific shooter for the Sunshine Girls at the World Netball Championships (WNC) in Singapore earlier this year, will be a huge bonus for the Thunderbirds although she is unable to take the court in the competition until fellow Jamaican Carla Borrego gains her citizenship. The 10 teams in the championships are allowed one import and Borrego has that status with Adelaide.

However, Borrego was granted permanent residency last week, which is a significant step to her being awarded citizenship. Fowler would then become the Thunderbirds' import.

The 6'5' Fowler, who is currently representing Jamaica at the World FastNet in England, plays for Waulgrovians in the local Berger Paints Super League.

Fowler attracted the attention of Thunderbirds during the WNC when she replaced Romelda Aiken as goal shooter in Jamaica's starting line-up in the semi-finals of the championships. Aiken, who represents the Queensland Firebirds, is the other Jamaica player playing in the ANZ championships.