Silver Ferns players look to stake their claim

With the net cast wide, opportunities abound for players to seize the moment in a defining four-Test Constellation Cup series for the Silver Ferns against Australia starting in Auckland on Wednesday (October 12).

Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua has unveiled a new strategy for the Constellation Cup by naming a 15-strong squad which will feature two different teams, one for the two matches in New Zealand and a slight tweaking of personnel for the second leg in Australia.

With several frontline players missing, Dame Noeline has set the tone in presenting an expanded group the opportunity and challenge to cement their credentials. There’s no better testing ground than against Australia and with a long-term view to next year’s Netball World Cup hovering, now is the time to test her depth of talent.

"I’m actually encouraging them to challenge us as selectors in that we have to pick them because they can’t be left out,’’ Dame Noeline said.

"The opportunities that are presented to them is the time to shine.  It’s a bit contradictory because we’re also asking them to serve each other and help each other but also when they get that time, they’ve got to own that bib.

"For me, it’s exciting. For them, it’s a bit daunting, but I hope they take it with two hands.’’

The absence of Gina Crampton (sabbatical) and Shannon Saunders (pregnant) has opened the door for the return of Peta Toeava, who will play in the New Zealand leg, and Kimiora Poi, the Australian matches.

"We’ve got amazing midcourters and it’s about seeing which ones can run to the level that’s required of our engine room and giving them opportunities under fire and the pressure we know that will come from Australia,’’ Dame Noeline said.

"With our midcourters what we’re looking for is that ability to be able feed under pressure knowing that will be a constant from Australia. That’s a massive matrix for us, and it’s about our middies giving that repeated effort.’’

The second test will in Tauranga the following Sunday (October 16) before the teams’ head to Australia, the first time in three years the Silver Ferns have been there, and where many have never played.

"That’s probably the most exciting thing from my end,’’ Dame Noeline said. ``They’re learning on the job and they’ll quickly know what it’s like, not only one game but our ability to back up in four matches is huge, as well as playing on Australian soil.

"This is what it’s all about and the only way they can learn is out on court and be challenged in this way.’’

The Silver Ferns got their hands on the Constellation Cup for the first time in nine years when they beat Australia 3 – 1 in Christchurch last year.

The Australian Diamonds are the world’s top-ranked team and there’s no diminishing the task at hand for the Silver Ferns.

"They have great depth. In their system, one can drop out, another one comes in who’s just as exciting, as fit and as competitive in their nature, so we know whoever they play, it’s going to be tough,’’ Dame Noeline said.

In a first for both sides, the New Zealand Men will play the curtain-raiser against the Australian Men in the first and third tests, which will be broadcast live.

Cadbury Netball Series – Constellation Cup

12 October 
Spark Arena in Auckland
5.20pm -  NZ Men v Australian Men
7.30pm - Silver Ferns v Australian Diamonds

16 October
Trustpower Baypark Arena in Tauranga
7.30pm - Silver Ferns v Australian Diamonds

19 October
John Cain Arena, Melbourne, Australia*
* NZ Men v Australian Men curtain-raiser game
9.30pm - Silver Ferns v Australian Diamonds

23 October
Gold Coast Convention Centre, Gold Coast, Australia
9.30pm - Silver Ferns v Australian Diamonds