Last time they met: NZL v AUS
This will be the first time the two sides have met since the Netball World Cup SYDNEY 2015 Gold Medal Match.
On that day – Sunday 16 August – it was the Diamonds that emerged victorious to claim the title of world champions by three goals. The win was their 75th over the Silver Ferns.
Now our attention turns to Christchurch for the first of four Test Matches between the top two nations in world Netball.
The only change to the Silver Ferns is in the shooting circle, with long bomb specialist Maria Tutaia on extended leave, providing the opportunity for Ameliaranne Wells to pull on the black dress for the first time since October 2014.
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Gone from the Diamonds gold medal-winning team is courageous vice-captain Kimberlee Green, along with defenders Julie Corletto and Rebecca Bulley. Enter debutants Gabi Simpson and Gretel Tippett, as well as Clare McMeniman.
History will tell us that the game has changed greatly since that first Test Match between Netball’s powerhouses in 1938.
But one thing is for sure – the rivalry has stood the test of time and is one that keeps fans and sports enthusiasts riveted year after year!
Can’t make it to the game? Fans can catch all the action from the New World Netball Series for the Constellation Cup LIVE on SKY Sport 4 from 7pm (check your local guides) – don’t miss the extended build-up to the first Test!
Show your support of the Silver Ferns by joining the team at SilverFans.co.nz!
Silver Ferns v Australia: by the numbers
1: World Ranking of Australian Diamonds
2: World Ranking of Silver Ferns
2: Number of times the teams have played out a draw
3: Margin the last time they met (August 16, 2015: AUS 58 def NZL 55)
6: Number of Constellation Cup series played (started in 2010)
20: Number of Constellation Cup Test Matches played
20: Number of times Waimarama Taumaunu and Lisa Alexander have gone head-to-head
46: Number of times the Silver Ferns have defeated Australia
49: Number of Test Matches Laura Langman has played against Australia
62: Number of times the winning margin between the two teams has been between 1 and 5
123: Number of times the Silver Ferns and Australia have played in history