Netball New Zealand says it is committed to developing pathways despite ANZ Premiership franchises calling on past players to fill injury gaps. Former Silver Ferns Leana de Bruin, 48, and Casey Kopua, 40, came out of retirement last weekend as injury replacements for the Northern Stars v Waikato-Bay of Plenty Magic clash. Others ex-players, including former Adelaide Thunderbirds defender Kate Walsh, who has signed as a replacement for the Stars, and netballer-turned-rugby player Grace Kukutai, have suited up this season. It has sparked an outcry with some fans loving seeing the ex-players, while others questioned the depth in the sport. The  Otago Daily Times  put questions to NNZ this week, including asking if retired players returning blocked opportunities for the next generation and what message their involvement sent to training partners/NNL players; if it raised concerns about player depth; and if there would be a review of the rules post season regarding retired players filling injury gaps.…