Queensland Firebirds' defender Tara Hinchliffe's 2021 Super Netball season is over after rupturing her ACL.
The Firebirds' vice-captain suffered the left leg injury in training on Sunday and scans have confirmed the extent of the damage.
It's a devastating blow not just for the Firebirds but also for the 23-year-old, who coach Megan Anderson felt was showing form which would have put her firmly in the frame for an Australian call-up for October's Constellation Cup against New Zealand.
"Tara has just been so strong for us this year, not only on the court but also off it, really stepping up into that leadership position," Anderson said.
"The girls really respect her honesty, passion and authenticity."
Jamaican goal shooter Romelda Aiken is also having an ankle injury assessed by Firebirds' medical staff.
The Firebirds and their rivals will not play this weekend after competition was suspended with all clubs relocating to Queensland due to the ongoing COVID situations in NSW, Victoria and South Australia.
Organisers are aiming to resume matches in the middle of next week with the remaining three rounds of the home-and-away campaign to be finalised in the coming days.
Australian Associated Press
