SEVERN Stars’ new head coach says her team must be on fire from the word go as they face a derby against the reigning Superleague champions in their first match of a new netball tournament.

Sam Bird believes the British Fast5 All-Stars Championship, which introduces a raft of new rules to shake up the traditional format, could be won by any team.

Stars face Coventry-based Wasps in the first round at the O2 Arena, London, on Saturday.

Bird says her players have been working hard to bring their best game in front of thousands of spectators.

“We are really excited,” she said.

“We have drawn Wasps in our first match so we have to be on fire from the word go. Training has gone well so far with more to fit in.

"New team members have enjoyed being with the squad and we have retained the positive training environment we established last year and intend to keep our players working hard but enjoying representing Stars as well.”

New signing, ex-England and Team Bath player Sam Cook, will make her debut in defence.

Run by Matchroom Sport eight five-player sides compete in a double elimination group stage for a semi-final spot with the winners earning £25,000.

Innovations include a double-point power-play, five-point line and 12-minute matches with teams allowed two global All-Star players in their squad.

“The fast5 format is new to lots of players,” said Bird.

“The introduction of a five-point shot and two-minute power-play means the game can and will change very quickly.

"Anyone can win the competition with a well-placed and well-timed shot.

“The competition is a one-off experience for the team but also a great chance for our players to come together right at the beginning of pre-season to work together under pressure and for our fans to get behind us at the O2 Arena.”

Stars welcome internationals Phumza Maweni and Maryka Holtzhausen from the South African Premier League.

Eleanor Cardwell, Jodie Gibson, Iona Darroch, Laura Malcolm, Becky Oatley, Sophie Carter and Clare Elsley are also in Stars' squad.