Netball: Ferns game to clash with RWC final

The Silver Ferns will play rivals Australia in Perth on October 23. Photo / Getty Images

Netball New Zealand's had its arm twisted with a Silver Ferns test against Australia scheduled on the same day as the Rugby World Cup final.

The two giants of world netball will meet each other in the first match of a three test series on October 23 - the day rugby takes centre stage.

CEO Raelene Castle says Netball Australia's trying to use the match to promote a big event in Perth.

She says they're having the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting there and Netball NZ has to support its partner.

Castle says they can't do anything about the date but they're trying to make sure the game is played before the rugby begins.

- NEWSTALK ZB