Jets ready to soar into new Superleague year

They take on Loughborough Lightning on Super Saturday – when all eight teams in the competition will play back-to-back at Birmingham’s Genting Arena live on Sky Sports.

The Jets centre pass, at 4pm, will mark the start of an exciting season with Anna Carter’s new-look team hoping to build on their impressive form last year.

New signing, England international Stacey Francis, will captain the side and overseas internationals Vanes-Mari Du Toit, Maria Lutua and Sophie Halpin are set to feature.

However, vice-captain Kylie Paynter will be out for the opening games after suffering a broken toe.

Just over 48 hours after finishing their round one match, Jets will be back on court for their opening game of the season in Yorkshire, against Team Bath in Sheffield.

A capacity crowd is expected at the English Institute of Sport for the clash which will also be played out in front of the TV cameras from 7.45pm on Monday.

“I’m extremely proud to be the new captain of the 2016 Yorkshire Jets squad,” said Francis.

“The 2016 Vitality Netball Superleague gets underway with our first game of the season starting at 4pm at the Genting Arena, in Birmingham, against Loughborough Lightning.

“This season opener is set to be one like we have never experienced before with it being dubbed ‘Super Saturday’.”

Francis is the daughter of former Birmingham and Stockport footballer Kevin Francis, and moved to the Jets from Bath.

She is also plays part-time with the England squad.