The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel has chosen to sign a second Australian player for its 2026 campaign.

Sharp shooter Josie Bingham will make her ANZ Premiership debut next season, joining her current Gold Coast Titans team-mate Jess Milne in moving to Invercargill.

A recent rule change from Netball New Zealand now allows for up to two import players per franchise.

Bingham, 25, said she was eager to make the most of the opportunity ahead.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining a club with such a rich history and to become part of a community that’s so passionate about netball. I can't wait to get out, meet everyone, and immerse myself in the environment,” she said.

“The opportunity to learn the New Zealand style of play and grow alongside such experienced players is something that truly excites me. I’m really looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Highly-regarded for her shooting prowess, Bingham was determined to have a positive impact in the Steel environment.

“On court, I will bring my speed and creative flair, as well as my confidence to go to post from anywhere in the circle. Off court I will be a friendly, welcoming face who’s always up for a laugh,” she said.

“My personal goal for 2026 is to take my game to the next level and continue to add to my tool kit across both GA and GS.

“I want to be able to make positive contributions both on and off court and take each opportunity with both hands to help deliver success for Steel.”

Head coach Wendy Frew was confident Bingham would be an asset.

“Josie brings a lot of speed and agility to the court. She’s a real gun at the two-point shot so it’s pretty exciting to see how we can exploit that in the last five minutes of quarters,” she said.

“She’s really excited about the opportunity and had been playing for the Titans alongside Jess and is ready for that next step up so it’s great to welcome her to the team.

“I’ve had a lot of good meetings with them both and they’re really going to relish the opportunity of coming to New Zealand and playing in our league.”

The Australian duo completes the 2026 Steel squad, which also comprises shooters Georgia Heffernan and Aliyah Dunn, midcourters Kimiora Poi, Renee Savai’inaea, Serina Daunakamakama and Ashleigh Poi, and defenders Carys Stythe and Khanye-Lii Munro-Nonoa.