Netball: Ferns go back to the basics

Gabriella Simpson is challenged by Silver Fern Grace Kara during the 2018 Netball Quad Series match between Australia and New Zealand. Photo / Photosport

The Silver Ferns have been "picking themselves to pieces" in their five-day training camp in Wellington, says coach Janine Southby.

The Wellington camp, which finishes today, is part of the build-up to the Taini Jamison Trophy Series and the Commonwealth Games.

It comes after a disappointing Northern Netball Quad Series in which her team received heavy criticism for the lack of belief they displayed on court.

"We've had a real focus on back to basics, getting our basic skills on attack and defence really flowing," Southby told the Herald on Sunday.

She said the Ferns were also rebuilding their team confidence.

"Certainly from the inside we're absolutely picking ourselves to pieces and looking at everything we can to make sure that we're getting it right," Southby said.

"You get confidence from building the trust and connections with each other, and that's certainly what we're doing.

"We believe that over the next six weeks we have an opportune time to be together, build those connections, and build that confidence."

The Silver Ferns Commonwealth Games team announcement came with a few surprises last month, including the return of Ameliaranne Ekenasio and the introduction of uncapped Michaela Sokolich-Beatson.

Southby said both players had settled well into the team.

"They're both very open and driven people and want to be the best they can be. You wouldn't know that they're new in the group," Southby said.

"Particularly Michaela, I've been really impressed with her openness and her ability to ask questions, particularly being such a young player.

"Ameliaranne has been here before, but she's certainly taken nothing for granted.

"She's doing everything she can to make sure she's getting back into the group and connecting with everyone."

The Taini Jamison Trophy will be held at the North Shore Events Centre between March 21 and 24, before the Ferns play their opening match in the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games on April 5.