Editorial: Ferns big hit for city

Photo / Stephen Parker

It's exciting to have international sport back in the city this week, and even more exciting that it's set to be a sell-out.

Tomorrow night the Silver Ferns take on England at the Energy Events Centre. They will play for the Taini Jamison Trophy, named after a Rotorua netballing legend.

The New Zealanders have a lot to prove after their recent 4-0 test series defeat to the Aussies, so hopefully Rotorua will see them fired up and at their very best.

Netball may not be everyone's cup of tea as a spectator sport - there can be a lot of whistle and stop/start play which can be frustrating at times.

However, watching top level netball live is a completely different matter. Up close you can see, hear and almost feel the speed, skill and physicality of these sportswomen. It's not a sport for the faint-hearted and it's certainly hard contact.

Star shooter Cathrine Latu told us it was great to be playing a test match outside the main centres, even if there was little time for sightseeing or taking in Rotorua's attractions.

Sending six of the team to New World - the series sponsor - to meet fans yesterday was also a nice touch, appreciated by fans young and old. Plus it gave the players a chance to do their shopping in between training sessions, stocking up on socks and toothpaste according to our spy!

It's not often we get international sport on our doorstep - let's hope a sell-out rowdy crowd tomorrow night will not only drive our team to victory but also bolster our chances of hosting more top-class sport.