Important test ahead for Ferns

• Published date: 20 January 2023
• Publication title: Sports Tab

Background

The Netball Quad Series, involving New Zealand, Australia, England and South Africa, was created eight years ago to provide regular top-level international competition.

From 2017 to 2018, two series were played each year, but it has since been scaled back to one. It was cancelled in 2020 — replaced by the nations cup involving New Zealand, England, South Africa and Jamaica instead — and 2021 due to COVID.

Australia has won six titles, with New Zealand the only other team to win, in 2017.

Big year ahead

The stakes are higher than ever going into this series.

The Netball World Cup takes place in Cape Town for the first time later this year, and this series gives players an opportunity to scope out the courts ahead of the pinnacle event.

All teams are missing key players or introducing them back into the fold, and it is the first, and only, international hit-out before the World Cup.

Silver Ferns

The Silver Ferns have not won the Quad Series since 2017. In fact, they have missed out on the top two since then.

Australia and England have dominated, but the Silver Ferns will know how important this tournament is for their World Cup preparations.

Several players are returning from maternity leave, injuries and extended leave, and it is a chance for coach Noeline Taurua to test her combinations and for players to put their hands up for selection.

Three players to watch

Jane Watson

Watson is back in black after an extended break due to ankle surgery and the birth of her first child.

The energetic defender is known for her reach, deflections and quick footwork, and will be a big asset for the defensive end.

Taurua has already indicated Watson’s court time will be managed, so it will be even more important to see what she can produce.

The 52-cap goal keep brings some much-needed experience too, and will team nicely with Tactix team member Karin Burger.

Karin Burger

Burger is another player returning to the court.

The defender missed the Commonwealth Games after having foot surgery and last played international netball in last year’s quad series.

Her ability to cover all three defensive positions, extra height at wing defence and capabilities as a ball-getter set her apart.

Keep an eye on where she might be able to slot in, though.

There is no denying the 33-cap defender is a game-changer, but Kate Heffernan (WD) and Phoenix Karaka (GD) have both really stepped up in her absence.

Peta Toeava

Toeava has a point to prove.

The Mystics wing attack has only five...