When Waimarama Taumaunu gathered her new-look Silver Ferns team she had selected for the World Cup together for the first time last month, she had one clear message for the group: "I picked this team. If it doesn't work out, that's my problem. You have nothing to fear."
For the past nine days of the Sydney tournament, the team have being doing just that - playing without fear or consequence. Now they find themselves one game away from a world title, Casey Kopua says that approach will not change.
The team's inspirational captain has implored her team to continue to play with confidence and courage against Australia tomorrow and, most importantly, enjoy the experience.
"The feeling in this group is truly special at the moment," said Kopua after her side's convincing 50-39 win over England in yesterday's semifinal. "We're in a really good space, but we still know we have 60 minutes of netball to play."
It is hard to remember a time a Silver Ferns team have been in such a good headspace approaching what for many of the team, including Kopua, will likely be their last shot at a world title. Freed from the burden of public expectation for this tournament after a horror 2014 season, New Zealand have relished the role of the underdog, taking the approach they will come to Sydney and give it a good crack playing a style of game they enjoy.
