NSW Swifts midcourter Paige Hadley may have played her way to the Netball World Cup after starring in her side's big win over previously unbeaten Melbourne Vixens.
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Named MVP in the 60-50 Super Netball victory, Hadley's timing couldn't have been better with Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander and fellow national selectors Annie Sargeant and Michelle Wilkins in the stands at Margaret Court Arena for the Sunday match.
On Thursday they will name the 12-player line-up for the game's showpiece in Liverpool, England, from July 12-21, where the Australians will attempt to defend their title.
Hadley was only elevated to the Diamonds extended squad in March after impressing as an invitee to a Canberra training camp but has continued her strong form, shading Vixens centre Kate Moloney.
The 26-year-old was a member of Australia's triumphant 2015 world cup side but missed last year's Commonwealth Games due to an ankle injury.
Hadley said she'd be thrilled with a recall.
"Obviously everyone's pushing for selection, everyone as an Australian player wants to be there, and if I got there it would be a dream," Hadley said.
As well as Hadley and Moloney, the mid-court is hotly contested with Kim Ravaillion, Liz Watson and Kelsey Browne in the mix. Ash Brazill, Diamonds vice-captain Gabi Simpson, Jamie-Lee Price and Jess Anstiss are also in selection contention.
While Hadley may have played herself into the line-up, Vixens goal attack Tegan Philip may have played herself out.
She had a quiet game in the goal circle and multiple turnovers which saw her replaced temporarily by South African debutante Ine-Mari Venter .
Vixens shooter Caitlin Thwaites stood up under some stiff Swifts defence to put her hand up, while Gretel Tippett, Stephanie Wood and young gun Kiera Austin are also fighting to join Australian skipper Caitlin Bassett in the World Cup side.
Diamonds goal keeper Courtney Bruce made a successful return on Friday night after three weeks out with an elbow injury and has Emily Mannix, Sarah Klau, April Brandley and the Jo Weston also lining up for selection.
Alexander said there would be a lot of disappointed players.
"It's going to be tough - there's going to be some really great players who miss out but that's the way it is," the coach told AAP.
Australian Associated Press
