Netball Super League | Manchester Thunder captain Laura Malcolm to leave champions

Recently crowned 2022 Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) champions Manchester Thunder have today revealed that captain and Vitality Rose Laura Malcolm will depart from the side. Boasting four VNSL titles, Malcolm will leave the Superleague to seize a new opportunity overseas.

A prominent player for over 10 years, Malcolm’s final season in the league saw her lead her side to a monumental undefeated run which ended with a dominant victory over Loughborough Lightning in the Grand Final on Sunday.

“I have been given a dream opportunity to go and play overseas which I had to take with two hands. Unfortunately, that means that I won’t be playing in the yellow dress for Manchester Thunder next season.” Malcolm explained.

Lifting the VNSL trophy in 2012, 2014, 2019 and 2022 Malcolm has not only enjoyed success in the domestic league but has excelled on the international stage at both junior and senior level.

Boasting 35 caps for the Vitality Roses, Malcolm featured in the history making England side that won the 2021 Cadbury Netball Series for the first time over World Champions New Zealand in Auckland last year. Malcolm later celebrated again with her national side as they equalled a ‘best ever finish’ in the Netball Quad Series, claiming silver medals.

Malcolm said: “I wanted to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to the coaches, players, staff, volunteers and the fans for making my time at Manchester Thunder incredible. We’ve managed to get four titles together and have the best experience, with a perfect last season so thank you so much for that.”

Manchester Thunder Head Coach Karen Greig has been alongside Malcolm during her career both as coach and player.

“I could not be prouder of Laura. The opportunity to play overseas has always been a dream of hers since coming back to Thunder for the 2018/19 season. She has been on a huge journey, has been so focused and diligent with her work both on and off court and has left no stone unturned in her persistence to achieve,” she said.

“Laura will be sorely missed after what I think has been the season of her life this year, smashing it on and off court and leading this team proudly. I am so proud to have been a part of her achievements and wish her all the luck in the world on this next challenge.” Greig added.

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