The Silver Ferns will play Australia in a two-test series less than a month out from next year's world netball champs.

The Northern Mystics have been "confronting a few realities" as they look to shake off their tag as perennial underachievers.

Auckland police say they have been assured by Chinese authorities that Zhen Xiao will not face the death sentence if he is convicted of murdering Auckland taxi driver Hiren Mohini.

A man accused of murdering a woman by deliberately swerving into her car said he "might as well" kill himself, a court had been told.

The Southern Steel will be looking for a new home next season after Stadium Southland suffered extensive damage in a snow storm.

The Northern Mystics have sprung a late surprise in their line-up for next season.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw takes no issue with how the convoluted breakdown laws are being policed in the Tri-Nations.

The partner of Magic coach Noeline Taurua admits sending abusive emails to the Herald netball reporter over his team's coverage.

Former Silver Fern Linda Vagana believes the import rules in the transtasman league are hurting smaller netball nations.

A few weeks ago the Magic looked consigned to finish their season on the also-rans heap.

The Adelaide Thunderbirds believe their extra week of preparation gives them an advantage.

The last two teams standing in the ANZ Championship have both battled their way to get there.