The Silver Ferns vice captain Temepara George is retiring from international netball.
George has played 89 tests for New Zealand making her debut in 2000.
Netball New Zealand has announced its list of 16 contracted players for the next year, with tests against England and world champions Australia in October the next assignment for the Silver Ferns.
The veteran goal shoot Irene van Dyk is in the squad confirming her intention to continue at international level.
While there are two newcomers Julianna Naoupu from the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic and Kayla Cullen from the Mystics.
A replacement for the injured captain Casey Williams will be named later in the month for the tests against England and Australia.
The Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken concedes the Silver Ferns will feel some growing pains as they develop a replacement for George, with Liana Leota expected to fill the role.
Aitken says George has been the dominant midcourter in the game for the past decade and her experience will be sorely missed.
