Netball: Rivals picked winning team

A little known oddity of the World Seven series came to light this week when it was revealed the world team was actually selected by their opposition.

Netball New Zealand may be regretting their decision to assemble the best opposition they could muster. It was hoped the World Seven would provide the Silver Ferns with stiff opposition ahead of a tough series against Australia next week.

But the visitors, under the solid leadership of coach Julie Fitzgerald, have probably proved a bit too competitive for the Silver Ferns liking.

The composite team, who only really knew each other by name before assembling in New Zealand this week, have dealt the Ferns a lesson in no-frills, mistake-free netball.

Now the New Zealand side must produce a remarkable turnaround in the final match in Auckland tomorrow night.

Not the build-up Netball New Zealand had in mind when they first floated the idea of playing a series of "friendlies" against a world selection.

After Wednesday night's second test loss, Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken was at pains to emphasise the quality of their opposition. "They are very talented players. I might have to have more of a say in who we choose next time," she laughed.

But while the series is unlikely to have done the Ferns' confidence much good, there is a longterm benefit.

The inclusion of veteran Australian midcourters Natasha Chokljat and Peta Scholz, both of whom would not look out of place in the Diamonds line-up, will serve the Ferns well, allowing the midcourt to adjust to the combative Australian style.

The Australians have taken the opposite approach in selecting the world team to face the Diamonds. Their decision to leave Sheryl Scanlan out of the side may be a directive from coach Norma Plummer, who would not want to give fringe Silver Ferns extra development opportunities.