Former Silver Ferns captain Ana Noovao has died aged 58.

The midcourter played for New Zealand between 1989 and 1992, picking up 23 test caps.

She debuted against Australia in 1989.

Noovao was a member of the Silver Ferns squad that lost the 1991 World Cup final by one goal to Australia.

She was elevated to Silver Ferns captain in 1992 following the retirement of Waimarama Taumaunu.

Noovao also played for and coached the Cook Islands.