World’s best to clash in lead up to WNC

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

By Netball Australia

An exciting international clash against world number one and three, New Zealand and Jamaica respectively, will liven up Australia’s preparations for the 2007 World Netball Championships, to be held in Auckland, New Zealand in November.

Matches will be played both in Australia and New Zealand during the July three-week mid season break in the Commonwealth Bank Trophy, giving trans-Tasman netball fans an opportunity to see the World’s best sides in intense competition.

Australia will compete in five test matches over the three-week period, with two home matches each against Jamaica and New Zealand, and one across the trans-Tasman in Auckland against New Zealand.

The Jamaican series is a rare treat for Australian fans, with the July series celebrating the first international series against Jamaica on Australian soil, excluding the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, in 13 years. With the last match up between the two sides resulting in a thrilling draw, the July series will bring with it much anticipation in the lead up to the World Netball Championships.

With Australia’s gripping series win against New Zealand in October 2006, the strong rivalry is at its best with the July series the final confrontation before the November campaign to be crowned World Champions.

“Australia, New Zealand and Jamaica are all first class sides and this competition will be nothing short of first-rate netball action, as we all bring our individual style of play and match winning performances to the stage this July,” National Coach, Norma Plummer said.

“Australia has a committed approach to the preparations for the World Championships, and with eight international matches already confirmed for the year, we are in the best position to succeed in regaining our number one status in November.”

International Test Series
Thursday 5 July, Australia vs. Jamaica, venue TBC
Sunday 8 July, Australia vs. Jamaica, venue TBC

Fisher & Paykel Cup
Wednesday 18 July, New Zealand vs. Australia, Auckland (NZ)

International Test Series
Saturday 21 July, Australia vs. New Zealand, venue TBC
Tuesday 24 July, Australia vs. New Zealand, venue TBC

Jamaica will also play two tests against New Zealand on Thursday 12 July in Christchurch and Saturday 14 July in Auckland.

Netball Australia will announce venue details and ticket sale information, in due course.