Dragons change up squad for NSL play-off push

LexisNexis Dragons' Reinga Bloxham was named 2026 NSL coach of the season [Getty Images] LexisNexis Dragons have changed almost a third of their squad as they bid to improve on fifth place in Netball Super League (NSL). Head coach Reigna Bloxham has signed New Zealanders Saviour Tui (goal shooter), Holly Mather (centre, wing defence), along with former England Under-21 captain Phoebe Maslen (centre, wing defence). They replace Wales international Phillipa Yarranton who is retiring, South African mid-courter Khanyisa Chawane who has departed after three seasons, and Ellen Withington who was signed as a permanent replacement player during 2026. Having finished bottom of NSL in 2025, Dragons fell only three points short of making the end of season play-offs in this year's campaign. Fifth in the eight-team league represented the Welsh franchise's best finish since 2014. "I am really looking forward to what this 2027 squad can do this season," said Bloxham. "We have been building our performance culture the past two seasons so I am pleased with the foundation we have to launch ourselves into the season. "Being able to secure the core of the team has allowed us to just add a few extra players who will add to our talent pool. They will bring a new energy, style and flare to our game." Bloxham to take interim charge of Welsh Feathers LexisNexis Dragons squad 2027 Saviour Tui has signed from ANZ Premiership side Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic. The 24-year-old Wellington-born goal shooter or goal attack has represented both New Zealand and Samoa on the international stage, and also spent several seasons under Bloxham at Southern Steel. "Everything I have heard about this club [Dragons] and this environment made it an easy decision. I am here to compete, to contribute and to help take this team as far as it can go," Tui said. Holly Mather joined Mainland Tactix in 2025, winning the ANZ Premiership in her debut season, before helping them reach the Elimination Final this year. The 25-year-old mid-courter said: "They [Dragons] embrace the same passion for netball as me. I can't wait to work hard, play hard with this squad." Phoebe Maslen joins from NIC Leeds Rhinos having previously played in the NSL for Birmingham Panthers and Team Bath. "I am so excited to be a Dragon for the 2027 season. I can't wait to get started and see what we can achieve together. This is a really exciting squad and I'm looking forward to the challenge," Maslen said. Seven players remain from the Dragons encouraging 2026 campaign which saw them win six of their 14 games, with three defeats by just one goal. They will be led once again by Welsh Feathers captain Bethan Dyke (wing attack, centre) who returns for a third season with Dragons. She is joined by four more Wales internationals in Leah Middleton (goalkeeper, goal defence), Alex Johnson (goal defence), Victoria Booth (wing defence) and goal shooter Georgia Rowe who was Dragons' top goalscorer in the 2026 season. Rowe is joined in the attacking circle by Scotland international Niamh McCall , who was third in NSL over the past season for two-goal Super Shots. The 10-player squad is completed by Jacqui Newton returning for a fourth year. The 29-year-old Australian goal defence was named in the NSL All-Star 7 for the 2026 season. Thunder beat Pulse to win Super League Grand Final