Netball: NZ and Australia must join forces

By Suzanne McFadden

New Zealand netball needs to strengthen its ties with Australia after the ravine between them and the rest of the world just got bigger.

It may sound crazy - even greedy - to suggest that netball's two superpowers should spend more time together and become even stronger.

But after the Silver Ferns' routs of South Africa in the past week, it has become obvious that we need the Australians on our patch more often to keep the fans interested. Tonight's third test in Auckland threatens to be another 40-goal hiding by the Ferns.

While New Zealand have played outstanding netball, keeping the crowds happy, it would be tough to get even the most diehard fans to watch another walkover series next week.

Television ratings for this series were already down on the usual viewing figures.

Netball New Zealand will meet its ustralian counterpart in the next few weeks to discuss a new transtasman competition.

There was talk when the Coca-Cola Cup began in its franchise format two years ago that it would involve Australian teams by the year 2000.

But it seems more likely that the new Star Series, in which New Zealand is divided into three zones, would be the best vehicle for a new transtasman relationship. North, Central and South versus the top three Australian state sides would be the ideal scenario. But it all comes down to timing.

Since becoming world champions, ustralia have struggled to draw crowds to their international series, other than those against the Silver Ferns. Netball New ealand has taken note.

That doesn't mean the invitations will dry up to the rest of the world. New Zealand netball is also very concious of its responsibility to help to strengthen the lesser ations. Two of our top coaches are already doing their bit in Britain - Leigh Gibbs has signed up with Wales, joining Wai Taumaunu in England.

Another big win in Auckland tonight will set the Silver Ferns up as favourites for the world championships in Christchurch in September.

They will have gone through the year unbeaten, with wins over the other four teams in the world's top five. And they have done so with class and a new-found ability to focus for 60 minutes, instead of 45.

Another clue to New Zealand's progress will be found this weekend, when the roteas stop off for one test against the Australians on their way home. Silver Ferns coach Yvonne Willering, who must be credited with some of the team's improvement this year, will be in the audience to watch.

Tonight's test at the ASB Stadium - netball capacity 2900 - is a sellout. The tickets were snapped up well in advance of the first two tests.