18 Dec 2019

Maria Folau will be remembered for her courage - Wai Taumaunu

From Morning Report, 7:54 am on 18 December 2019

While many will remember Silver Ferns shooter Maria Folau for her signature long range shot, former Silver Ferns coach Wai Taumaunu says its Folau's courage she will remember most.

The 32-year-old 150 test veteran has hung up her bib having played her final tests in October's Constellation Cup series loss to Australia.

She made her Silver Ferns debut as an 18-year-old in 2005 but withdrew from the limelight over the past two years because of the public furor surrounding her husband, former Wallabies rugby star Israel Folau.

Maria Folau wouldn't be interviewed about her retirement.

Taumaunu who was coach of the Silver Ferns for four years from 2011 to 2015 told sports editor Stephen Hewson, Folau is undoubtedly one of the game's greats.