In a stunning display of precision and power, the New Zealand Silver Ferns have kicked off the Constellation Cup with a resounding 64-50 thrashing of the Australian Diamonds in Wellington. The commanding win, their largest margin of victory over their trans-Tasman rivals since 2010, has sent shockwaves through the netball world and left the top-ranked Diamonds scrambling for answers.
Silver Ferns Shoot the Lights Out
Led by the sensational shooting of young star Grace Nweke, who converted an incredible 50 goals from 53 attempts, and skipper Ameliaranne Ekenasio‘s 14 from 15, the Silver Ferns’ attacking prowess proved too hot to handle for the Diamonds defense. The Kiwi shooters were nearly flawless, leaving the Aussies grasping at air as they piled on the goals.
Nweke was simply unstoppable. Her movement, accuracy, and connection with Ekenasio were world-class. The Diamonds had no answer for that shooting combination today.
– Netball commentator Sue Gaudion
Second Quarter Surge Seals the Deal
While the Diamonds managed to stay in touch during the first quarter, only trailing 17-16, the second stanza saw the Silver Ferns shift into overdrive. With relentless defensive pressure forcing Australian turnovers, and slick transition play allowing Nweke and Ekenasio to shine, the Kiwis surged ahead to lead 34-25 at the main break.
The rattled Diamonds, struggling to find any rhythm, made multiple changes in an attempt to swing the momentum. Goal attack Kiera Austin, player of the series in their recent win over England, was replaced at halftime after shooting at just 64%, well below her usual lofty standards.
Diamonds’ Dismal Drought Continues
For Australian coach Stacey Marinkovich, the loss extends a worrying trend, with the Diamonds having now dropped their last seven Tests in New Zealand dating back to 2021. Marinkovich’s sole victory on Kiwi soil came in her first year at the helm, and the pressure will be mounting to reverse this record and reassert Australia’s dominance.
We’ve got to go back to the drawing board and figure out how we match up better against the Silver Ferns’ style. They were too good today, but we have the talent and drive to turn this around. It starts with the next Test in Auckland.
– Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich
Upcoming Clashes Crucial
With game two set for Auckland on Wednesday, the Diamonds will need to regroup quickly if they hope to level the series. The Silver Ferns, brimming with confidence, will look to ride the wave of momentum in front of another rapturous home crowd.
The series then shifts to Australia for the final two Tests, with Perth and Melbourne playing host. The Diamonds will be desperate to make the most of home court advantage, but on current form, the Silver Ferns will fancy their chances of claiming a rare Constellation Cup triumph on enemy territory.
More Than Just Bragging Rights
While the Constellation Cup may not carry the same prestige as the Netball World Cup or Commonwealth Games, the rivalry between these two netball powerhouses remains as fierce as ever. For the Silver Ferns, a series victory would solidify their status as the world’s top team and build valuable momentum heading into next year’s major tournaments.
The Diamonds, meanwhile, will be determined to reassert their supremacy and prove that the Wellington result was merely an aberration. With pride, rankings, and psychological ascendancy on the line, expect the intensity to reach fever pitch as this captivating Constellation Cup continues.
