“We are grateful that Hancock Prospecting continued to stand by our sport throughout the recent turbulence and we regret the impact this has had on the company,” Archer said.

“This has been a challenging period for all involved and while every effort has been made from all parties to resolve the issues surrounding the sensitivities of the partnership, unfortunately we have not been able to achieve a mutually satisfactory outcome.”

A subsequent statement from Hancock laid bare Rinehart’s disapproval of sports organisations’ engagement in social or political causes.

‘There are more targeted and genuine ways to progress social or political causes without virtue signalling.’

Hancock Prospecting

“Hancock and its Executive Chairman Mrs Rinehart, consider that it is unnecessary for sports organisations to be used as a vehicle for social or political causes,” the statement read. “There are more targeted and genuine ways to progress social or political causes without virtue signalling or for self-publicity.

“The reality is that sponsorship is integral to sports organisations - for full time professionals right through to the grassroots level. Hancock has, and always will, ensure its sponsorship is spent on and for the athletes.

The mining company also rejected reports that it required the Diamonds to wear its logo during the Constellation Cup series when playing overseas.

“Hancock would only ever want athletes to wear the Hancock logo if athletes are proud to do so,” it said.

Tensions between the governing body and the Netball Players Association were another factor in Hancock’s decision, according to their first statement.

“Hancock and Roy Hill were not made aware prior to the proposed partnerships, of the complexity of existing issues between Netball Australia and the Players Association,” the statement read. “This includes the Players’ Association’s endeavours to gain a very substantial increase in wages during a time the sport is reeling financially, and unable to provide such an increase.”

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While the initial deal has been withdrawn, Hancock have offered a 4-month sponsorship to Netball Australia and Netball WA, if their players wish to accept it, while the governing body arranges alternative funding.

Netball Australia chief executive Kelly Ryan said Hancock’s decision to withdraw from the initial sponsorship was disappointing.

“We acknowledge the difficulties and impact of recent discussions and are disappointed to see them withdraw the partnership,” she said. “This is a loss for our whole sport, from grassroots through to the elite program.”

Diamonds captain Liz Watson said on Tuesday the players backed the deal and hoped it would continue.

“As players we do know that Hancock is such a great investment for our program,” Watson said. “We are supportive of Hancock and all the players here are as well.”

But Watson said they also wanted to show support for their new teammate.

“Donnell’s part of this program, she knows where we stand, and we’re supporting Donnell with everything that’s going on. We’re supporting her cultural sensitivities around the program, around the partnership, and we want her to be herself and feel comfortable and strong. I know that the girls are supportive of that.”