Bassett strong contender for netball gongs

Shooter Caitlin Bassett is likely to be among the frontrunners when Australia's major netball awards are handed out on Saturday in Melbourne.

Bassett followed up a strong 2016 international campaign with an impressive Super Netball season, which culminated in her helping Sunshine Coast Lightning to the inaugural title.

Bassett will be in contention for the three major awards, the Liz Ellis Diamond, which covers both domestic and international games, and the the Super and the international player of the year.

Midcourter Madi Robinson, who like Bassett is a previous Liz Ellis Diamond winner, is also bound to be a strong contender to win it again.

Other midcourters Liz Watson, Gabi Simpson and Kim Ravaillion have all performed consistently over the past year.

Among the defenders, Sharni Layton had a strong international season.

Overseas players aren't eligible for the Diamond, but could do well in the Super player of the year category.

Malawian shooter Mwai Kumwenda had an outstanding campaign with the Melbourne Vixens, winning several game MVP awards.

Awards will also be given to the Super netball coach and umpire of the year.

Diamonds' coach Lisa Alexander will next Tuesday announce her extended squad for the coming international season as well as separate squads for both the Quad series and Constellation Cup series.