TWO England under 21s internationals and future squad athletes are the latest signings to join the Severn Stars squad.

Experienced Superleague players Paige Reed and Halimat Adio say they are ready to hit the ground running ahead of Stars' third Vitality Netball Superleague campaign.

The pair both also have international experience for England at under 19s level.

Reed was scouted at school in Gloucester when she was 13 and previously played for Team Bath but her career highlight to date has been playing for the nation's under 21s against Australia.

“I am both nervous and excited about playing for the Severn Stars this year. It’s a great opportunity for me to play with a good bunch of girls and will help me expand my skillset,” said the 21-year-old goal attack.

“I’m looking forward to getting back on the court and playing with a new combination of team-mates.

"I want to become a consistent shooter and asset to the Stars and hope I can bring a fun style of play and a bit of banter to the team.”

This will be Adio’s third Superleague season having already played for Mavericks and Wasps.

“I’m excited to see everyone. I know Sam Bird is a really good coach and I believe this squad will help me develop,” said the 20-year-old defensive player who lives in Coventry.

“When I do get match play I just bang it out and act like every match is my last. I have a lot of potential and can’t wait to get back on the court.

"I’m quite a loud character and want to help bring the new team together as a group.”

The pair will join Jodie Gibson, Iona Darroch, Lucy Harris, Maryka Holtzhausen, Sam Cook, Cara Lea Moseley, Georgia Rowe and Jodi-Ann Ward on the Stars team.

Head coach Bird said: “It is fantastic to have Paige and Halimat join the franchise.

"Paige is an exciting shooting player and was selected to play for England under 21s in the Netball Europe Championships.

"Halimat is also an England Futures player and a fabulous defender.

"She has made the move from Wasps this year and forms part of a very strong defending unit for the club.

"Both players represent the next generation of young England talent and I’m delighted to have them in our top 10 for this season.”