Central Pulse have lost their spot atop the ANZ Premiership and now have another frontline player sidelined, as their mounting casualty list takes its toll.
With Silver Ferns attackers Amelia Walmsley and Tiana Metuarau already out of commission, the side from the capital have lost the services of stand-in goal attack Khiarna Williams with a calf strain, expected to keep her out of action for up to six weeks.
That timeframe makes her a touch-and-go prospect for the competition playoffs, if the Pulse reach that stage.
Williams suffered the strain in the third quarter of their 58-41 loss to Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic - a result that ended their unbeaten start to the season after six wins. The Pulse now sit behind Mainland Tactix on goal differential.
"This is so disappointing for Khiarna and for us as a team,’’ said Pulse coach Anna Andrews-Tasola. "In her first year back after two years out with injury, Khiarna was doing so well in her comeback.
"She has had some great gamewinning moments for us this year, performing under immense pressure, while showing her potential as a strong up-and-coming shooter. "We’re rallying around, offering her all the support she needs, and look forward to seeing her back out there when fully recovered."
Williams was deputising for Metuarau in the GA bib and her absence now leaves the Pulse without any of their originally contracted shooters, as well as Silver Ferns midcourt Maddy Gordon.
They recruited Martina Salmon from Southern Steel to replace Walmsley under goal and have now brought Crystal Maro into the squad to join Kiana Pelasio in a very inexperienced shooting corps.
"Martina has made a stellar start to her career at the elite level and done a terrific job for us," said Andrews-Tasola. "She has slotted into the team seamlessly and we welcome her onboard in a fulltime capacity.
"We are excited to watch her growth and continued progress."
Salmon has shot 88 percent (76/86) across her two appearances for the Pulse so far.
They visit the Steel on Saturday.
