Kiwi international Leana de Bruin signs with Adelaide Thunderbirds

Former New Zealand international Leana de Bruin has continued to defy time after signing for the Adelaide Thunderbirds in next year's Super Netball competition.

The ex-Silver Ferns defender, who retired from international duty last year, turned 40 on Sunday but couldn't resist a crack at the new Australian competition after being contacted by coach Dan Ryan.

She had been in the process of considering retirement.

"Definitely shocked because here you are, sitting on the cross roads of whether to retire or what road you're going to take, and then an opportunity like this comes up," de Bruin said.

Adelaide had a forgettable first year in the league, managing one win in their 14 matches to finish last, something de Bruin is keen to address.

It was tough decision for the captain of the Northern Stars to make after leading the new club through the first year of the New Zealand's revamped domestic competition.

“Leana is one of the best defenders in the world and I’ve always had incredible respect for the way she plays the game. Her experience and smarts, plus the ability to stand up and be a match winner, are attributes that are going to be so valuable for our team,” head coach Dan Ryan told the Thunderbirds' website.

“She will provide great leadership down back, as well as the perfect mentorship for rising stars Kate Shimmin and Fiona Themann. Having her sign with us is just sensational and I cannot wait to see the positive influence she is going to have on the club.”

De Bruin, who has battled an on-going ankle injury all season, believes the competition's structure will also benefit her, with teams only playing one game per week.

She played 138 Tests - 104 for New Zealand and 34 for South Africa.