The disappointing news is a blow to the club who were trying to increase its presence in Ballarat, forecasting its intention to build on last year’s two home games – but clearly the 2018 fixture is a step backwards.

Sovereigns will open its account on April 29 against Ariels at the State Netball and Hockey Centre while Ballarat fans will have to wait until July 6 for its one and only taste of VNL action when the Sovereigns host Geelong Cougars at Wendouree Sports and Events Centre on the Friday night.

Sovereigns is nearing a decision on its final squad for the Championship division as it looks to improve on its three-win 2017 season. Last season saw the division one side deliver the best performance of the three grades, finishing fourth, bowing out in the semi-final.

It will be hoping some of those players can advance to championship level. 

Sovereigns have lost a number of key players from its top side with Casey Adamson and Sacha McDonald being the main two departures.