The 20-year-old Otago and Central Pulse midcourter was unavailable for comment yesterday but in a brief telephone conversation with the Otago Daily Times she said she was very proud and was looking forward to linking up with the national squad.
The University of Otago medical student impressed with her form during the ANZ Championship despite the Pulse managing just one win.
Canterbury Tactix defender Charlotte Kight is the other new face in the squad which will be captained by Magic defender Casey Williams.
Williams takes over from Julie Seymour, who has retired.
The selection of Williams as Seymour's successor was not unexpected.
"Casey is a formidable competitor who is widely respected across the netball world," New Zealand coach Ruth Aitken said.
"Her commitment and determination are qualities we value highly."
The 31-cap goal keep was delighted to be named the 23rd captain of the Silver Ferns.
"To wear the black dress is an honour in itself but even fewer get the opportunity to captain the side," Williams said.
The squad also features the return of Northern Mystics centre Temepara George after a self-imposed two-year hiatus from international netball.
George's return is timely given Seymour's absence.
New Zealand coach Ruth Aitken said the cross-over between George and Seymour was welcome.
"It's good Bubby [George] is able to commit again to the Silver Fern environment," said Aitken, impressed with the 33-year-old's input to a struggling Northern Mystics franchise.
Kight's promotion was aided by a pregnant Leana de Bruin's unavailability though Aitken said the rookie's enthusiasm and aggressiveness had already placed her in the frame.
"She has the wonderful exuberance of youth - she just has a go.
"She doesn't back down from any situation. She's gone from strength to strength this year."
Kight (21) logged minimal court time in 2008 and was expected to be on the periphery again before forming an impressive combination with England international Sonia Mkoloma.
Shooter Daneka Wipiiti was also unavailable as she awaits the birth of her first child.
Four Southern Steel players - Liana Barrett-Chase, Katrina Grant, Sheryl Scanlan and Wendy Telfer - have been included.
Aitken named a 15-strong squad for the eight-match programme starting with three games against the World selection in August.
Five tests against Australia follow in September.
The squad will be trimmed to 12 on August 21 for the matches against the World 7 but Steel midcourter Erika Burgess, along with Jodi Tod, Jess Tuki and Larissa Wilcox have been invited to trial with the squad with the possibility up to three players will be added ahead of the Australian series.
• Silver Ferns
The squad
Liana Barrett-Chase, Maree Bowden, Temepara George, Katrina Grant, Paula Griffin, Joline Henry, Charlotte Kight, Laura Langman, Camilla Lees, Sheryl Scanlan, Wendy Telfer, Anna Thompson, Maria Tutaia, Irene van Dyk, Casey Williams (c).
• 2009 schedule
August 24: v World 7, Wellington; August 26: v World 7, Rotorua; August 29: v World 7, Auckland; September 6: v Australia, Sydney; September 9: v Australia, Melbourne; September 13: v Australia, Brisbane; September 20: v Australia, Invercargill; September 23 v Australia, Auckland.
