Netball World Cup: Silver Ferns cruise into semis

Maria Tutaia looks to pass during the 2015 Netball World Cup match between New Zealand and Uganda. Photo / Getty Images

Netball NZ deal means decisions for veteran players over possible retirement and future of coaches will wait.

No fuss, no drama and no surprises. The Silver Ferns head into today's Netball World Cup semifinals the only unbeaten side after completing the qualification round with a comprehensive 76-33 win over Uganda late last night.

After torrid second round hit-outs against Jamaica and Malawi earlier this week, a less demanding opponent was probably just what the Silver Ferns needed as they ready themselves for what is expected to be a physical semifinal clash against England this afternoon.

Last night's performance had a look about it of a team going through the motions knowing they have, all going well, two big matches just around the corner. The second half seemed particularly flat from the Ferns, as they struggled to maintain their intensity and focus after leading 39-16 at the long break.

The Ferns were able to rest several key players for the match, including Bailey Mes, Kayla Cullen and Casey Kopua, while Maria Tutaia played just one quarter. The star shooter checked into the match in the final spell to notch up her 100th test appearance, becoming just the fourth Silver Fern to reach the milestone behind Lesley Rumball (2003), Irene van Dyk (2009) and Laura Langman (2014).

Defender Leana de Bruin is poised to reach the century mark tomorrow, in what is likely to be her final international appearance.

Given the tight turnaround between games, with the Ferns due to take the court against England at 2pm this afternoon - just 16 hours after wrapping up on court last night, New Zealand coach Waimarama Taumaunu was pleased she was able to offload some players last night.

"It was really important to get a good start, build a good score and share the load around," Taumaunu said.

"We meet England at midday [local time], so there is not much time to prepare. We'll have a short meeting in the morning but there is not a great deal of time to turn around."

But the team still managed to find time to last night honour Tutaia in her milestone appearance, holding a small in-team presentation. Tutaia said it had been an emotional day for her.

"It was pretty surreal, I'm very lucky to have the opportunity to play my 100th test cap with such an elite group of women and very few get to experience what I get to do so I feel very privileged and honoured."

England also came through a fairly straightforward final round match-up yesterday, toppling South Africa 62-46.

English midcourter Jade Clarke said she believes her side have the gameplan to deal with the Ferns' fast-moving shooting circle.

"We've got to put ourselves in position to get the ball, we can't concede because they will just front-cut us and work their way in really patiently."

In today's other semifinal, Australia will meet Jamaica after the Sunshine Girls scraped past Malawi 63-62 in their final qualification match.