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The latest news & updates from the Silver Ferns

Southby ready for Australian challenge

With the New World Netball Series for the Constellation Cup around the corner, Silver Ferns coach Janine Southby says her team will be ready for the challenge.

The last time the two teams met was during the recent Netball Quad Series, when the Australian Diamonds defeated the Silver Ferns 60-55 to claim the title.

Fast forward a month, and the Silver Ferns have a series win under their belt against the Jamaican Sunshine Girls and are welcoming back into the fold experienced duo Maria Tutaia and Anna Harrison.

“We know we have to be better against Australia; there is still a lot to improve on,” Southby said.

“We’ve had six games together, and yes we’re really pleased with where we have come to but we know to beat the world champions we have to really be on top of it and put out quality Netball for a full 60 minutes.”

Southby says she has been impressed with the new era of Silver Ferns, from the leadership group of Katrina Grant and Laura Langman, right through to the debutants.

“I’ve been really impressed with their attitude, their willingness to try different things and their ability to just get on and do it,” Southby said of the team.

“Some of the younger ones are really starting to put their hand up. That’s a great place to be in as a coach because you now have to start making decisions. When you have choices and competition for spots that’s where we are really trying to get to.”

The New World Netball Series for the Constellation Cup will see the Diamonds host the first two matches in Sydney (Oct 9) and Launceston (Oct 12), before they cross the Tasman for the final matches in Auckland (Oct 15) and Invercargill (Oct 20).

Tickets to the two Tests in New Zealand are on sale NOW with great seats still available!

Can’t make it to the game? Fans in New Zealand can catch all the action LIVE on SKY Sport  (check local guides).