Netball New Zealand broke the news in a press release and there is no quote from Folau herself as of yet.

She has decided to step away from the sport off the back of New Zealand's World Cup win in Liverpool earlier this year.

With two Commonwealth Games gold medals under her belt, the 32-year-old is the second most-capped New Zealand player in history behind Laura Langman and is renowned for scoring crucial goals, including the gold medal match against Australia at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. 

Since making her international debut in 2005 against Jamaica, Folau racked up numerous accolades on top of her golds, including one Commonwealth and three World Cup silvers as well as scoring the winning goal in the 2011 ANZ Championship against the Magic.

A member of the New Zealand National Team, the Silver Ferns, the shooter played her last game in October’s Constellation Cup loss to Australia. Folau also chose to not re-sign for club side Adelaide Thunderbirds for their forthcoming season. 

Noeline Taurua, Silver Ferns coach, said: "She will be long remembered for what she has brought to the game, and we will dearly miss her".

Jennie Wyllie, Netball NZ CEO, said: "Her service to the sport and dedication to New Zealand Netball is something we are very thankful for and we wish Maria all the best for her future".

Confirmation of Folau's retirement came moments after Taurua finalised her squad for the Vitality Netball Nations Cup in January which will see New Zealand play England, Jamaica and South Africa.