Constellation Cup netball: Who will star?

AUSTRALIA is gearing up for it’s final netball series of the year against traditional foes New Zealand in the annual Constellation Cup.

Netball’s equivalent of rugby union’s Bledisloe Cup, Australia are the current holders of the Constellation Cup.

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But New Zealand recently beat Australia in the Quad series for that title and that’s left a bad taste.

Changes have been made to the original Diamonds squad named for the series as the Australia’s bid to avenge the last loss.

Our guide to what is being tipped as an explosive series between the two powers of netball.

WHAT IS THE CONSTELLATION CUP

It’s a four-game series played annually between the two best netball teams in the world — Australia and New Zealand.

Since the inception of the series in 2010, Australia has only lost it once — in 2012.

WHY IS THE CUP SO IMPORTANT?

It’s crucial for both teams.

One, it will give them boasting rights heading into the new year.

Two, is crucial as selectors look to confirm teams for the Commonwealth Games.

Three, any time Australia and New Zealand meet in the sporting arena it’s important.

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CONSTELLATION CUP 2017 DATES

Oct. 5: New Zealand Silver Ferns v Australian Diamonds, Spark Arena, Auckland

Oct. 8: New Zealand Silver Ferns v Australian Diamonds, Horncastle Arena, Christchurch.

Oct. 11: Australian Diamonds v New Zealand Silver Ferns, Titanium Security Arena, Adelaide.

Oct. 14: 3.00pm Australian Diamonds v New Zealand Silver Ferns, Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney.

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TV TIMES

Nine, 9 Gem. Check your local guides for up-to-date details.

HOW ARE THE AUSSIES ARE LOOKING?

Not bad. Obviously Lisa Alexander is using the time available to give as many players as possible a crack at impressing before a team is finalised for the Commonwealth Games.

But Alexander was less than happy with her side when they were beaten by the Silver Ferns in their last meeting in the Quad series so expect the Diamonds to come out harder than ever.

WHAT WILL BE KEY TO AUSTRALIA’S SUCCESS

Getting it right in the midcourt and incurring far less penalties.

The Diamonds were smashed in the penalty count in the Quad series and this cannot happen again.

The midcourt also needs to find its groove — and fast.

THE DIAMONDS

Caitlin Bassett (Cpt), April Brandley, Courtney Bruce, Emily Mannix, Kate Moloney, Caitlyn Nevins, Susan Pettitt, Kim Ravaillion, Gabi Simpson, Caitlin Thwaites, Liz Watson, Jo Weston, Stephanie Wood

THE SILVER FERNS

Katrina Grant (Cpt), Maria Tutaia (vc), Gina Crampton, Kayla Cullen, Temalisi Fakahokotau, Shannon Francois, Kelly Jury, Bailey Mes, Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Samantha Sinclair, Whitney Souness, Maia Wilson.

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CURRENT WORLD RANKINGS

RANKINGS

1 Australia

2 New Zealand

3 England

4 Jamaica

5 South Africa

6 Malawi

7 Fiji

8 Wales