Firebirds' international quartet ready to ignite
The Firebirds arrive with a revamped midcourt that reads like a netball United Nations. New Zealand Silver Fern Maddy Gordon brings explosive speed, defensive hustle and creative feeding to Brisbane, adding Kiwi flair to an already formidable group. She joins English international Imogen Allison, whose renowned work rate and ball-winning ability at wing defence have quickly made her a fan favourite in the purple dress.
Anchoring this international mix are Firebirds vice-captains Lara Dunkley and Macy Gardner – players who live and breathe purple pride. Dunkley's calm hands, vision and seamless connection with the shooting circle complement Gardner's relentless competitiveness and willingness to take on ball and space. Together, this versatile quartet offers Head Coach Kiri Wills tactical flexibility and the ability to shift formations mid-game, exploiting opposition weaknesses with surgical precision.
Mavericks' reunited Diamonds combination seeks redemption
Standing in their way is a Mavericks midcourt undergoing its own fascinating transformation. The headline attraction is the reunion of Australian Diamonds duo Amy Parmenter and Jamie-Lee Price, who previously formed a devastating combination at GIANTS Netball. Price's high-profile move from Sydney following the 2025 season reunites her with Mavericks captain Parmenter in what shapes as one of the competition's most formidable defensive partnerships. Their established chemistry and international pedigree present a stern examination for any opposition attack.
The "GIANTS reborn" narrative gains further strength with the arrival of Maddy Hay, stepping in to replace 2025 Mavericks Club Champion Molly Jovic, who is sitting out the season after announcing she's expecting her first child. Hay's familiarity with both Price and Parmenter from their Sydney days means the Mavericks effectively field a midcourt with years of pre-existing chemistry, despite wearing new colours.
Contrasting philosophies collide
This matchup represents a fascinating study in contrasting netball philosophies. The Mavericks bring the quintessential Australian style – physical, close-checking defence built on brute strength and defensive grind. Price and Parmenter's combination thrives on disrupting rhythm and forcing errors through relentless pressure.
The Firebirds counter with international diversity and tactical unpredictability. Gordon's ability to find space in tight pockets, Allison's aerial contests and anticipation skills, combined with the established Australian excellence of Dunkley and Gardner, creates a unique blend that can unsettle the more regimented defensive structures. It's frenetic speed and diverse tactical backgrounds versus disciplined, systematic pressure.
Stakes couldn't be higher
This fixture represents more than another round in the season calendar – it's a statement game showcasing both clubs' midcourt investments and tactical evolution. The challenge for the Firebirds is leveraging their home court advantage and international mix to dismantle a unit that, despite being in new colours, already knows exactly how to play together. For the Mavericks, it's about proving their reunited combination can recapture the magic that made them so dangerous in Sydney.
With world-class athletes, international names and big-game experience concentrated in one third of the court, this clash promises to be a thrilling display of modern midcourt netball. Every contest, intercept and pinpoint feed will matter in determining which philosophy prevails.
Don't miss your chance to witness this battle unfold live. The intensity, skill and strategy between these elite athletes demands to be experienced firsthand. Secure your tickets now via Ticketek and be part of the Nissan Arena atmosphere as the Firebirds take on the Mavericks on April 26.
