Australian netball star Gretel Bueta is set to embark on an exciting new chapter as she prepares to play for the Johor Jewels in Malaysia’s Netball Super League, beginning April 18. This move has ignited speculation about a potential return to the Australian Diamonds, the national team, especially following her recent training sessions with Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich.
Bueta’s journey to Malaysia has deep roots, as she was personally invited by the Crown Princess of Johor, Che’Puan Mahkota Khaleeda, with whom she has developed a strong friendship. Reflecting on her time in Malaysia during a selection camp in January, Bueta expressed her gratitude, stating, “I feel very honoured. She’s a beautiful woman and very family-oriented.” The Crown Princess even welcomed Bueta’s family by sending gifts to keep her children entertained during their stay.
Relocating with her husband Niko and their three children, Bueta is eager to embrace this opportunity. The family recently visited the royal estate of the Crown Prince, who has shown support for various sports leagues in Malaysia. With the Netball Super League now in its sixth year, it has gained traction, attracting international talent, including former Silver Ferns player Laura Langman, who will join Bueta at the Jewels.
The heightened interest in Bueta’s potential return to the Diamonds stems from her previous appearance at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, where she played in the gold medal match. Fans were particularly excited when she was seen training one-on-one with Marinkovich last year, and she confirmed that they have maintained regular communication. “I did some training with Stacey recently, actually before the Jamaica Series,” Bueta said.
Despite her enthusiasm for the Diamonds, Bueta remains modest about her potential return. “Did you see the Jamaica series? I think they’re doing pretty well without me,” she remarked, indicating that she believes the team is in good hands. Nonetheless, she added, “If they put out an SOS, I would lace up the boots,” highlighting her willingness to help if needed.
Bueta took time away from professional netball to focus on her family, welcoming her second child, Toby, in 2023, and her third, Lacy, last year. She contemplated returning for the upcoming season in Australia but ultimately decided to seize the opportunity in Malaysia. “I want to see the Super Netball league keep growing,” she expressed, emphasizing her desire for her daughter, Lacy, to have a strong league to join in the future.
While Bueta does not rule out a return to the Suncorp Super Netball, she is currently focused on her role with the Johor Jewels. “I’m not saying no, because I don’t want to say no and then all of a sudden I’m like, ‘oh, surprise’,” she explained. The dynamics of her life have changed significantly since she has become a mother, yet she remains closely connected with her teammates, many of whom are lifelong friends.
As she transitions from the Australian Diamonds to the Malaysian jewels, Bueta is excited about what lies ahead. With the support of the royal family and a promising league, she is ready to make her mark in Malaysia while continuing to inspire netball fans back home.
