Proteas netball captain Maryka Holtzhausen will play in the English SuperLeague next season, becoming the first South African international to play in the UK's top domestic league.
Holtzhausen will spend 2015 with Loughborough Lightning and then return to South Africa to resume her World Cup preparations.
"I am very privileged to be given an opportunity to play for Loughborough Lightning in the 2015 season," Holtzhausen said in a statement on Monday.
"I am extremely excited not only about what Lightning can offer me as a player, but what I can offer them. I am truly blessed."
For Lightning, Holtzhausen will bring leadership qualities from her role as South African captain, which will complement the current crop of youthful talent.
The 27-year old is renowned for her creative attacking play and accurate shooting. She is also extremely versatile, being able to play in all three front line attacking positions.
Netball SA chief executive Blanch de la Guerre said Holtzhausen's move to the UK indictated the increasing recognition for the country's netball talent.
"This is a ground breaking moment for netball in South Africa," she said.
"As netball continues to grow across the world we are sure we will see many players make their mark on the international stage." - Sapa