The Australian Diamonds get their World Cup campaign underway in Cape Town tonight, taking on Zimbabwe in their first match.
The Diamonds head into the competition as the number one ranked side, but are looking to reclaim title of world champions which currently belongs to New Zealand after their 2019 World Cup win.
First up they’ll take on Zimbabwe, who are ranked 13th in the world heading into this competition, from 7pm AEST.
Watch Australia’s Netball World Cup run on Kayo Freebies. Join now and start streaming instantly>>
Fox Netball’s Kim Green said the Diamonds will need to be wary of the “physical” style of game The Gems will play.
“One thing they like to do in attack is play the ball around,” she said.
“It’s about being patient against that type of opposition.
BIG THREATS: The ‘absolute shooter’s nightmare’ standing between Australia and gold
EXPERT TIPS: Contender Diamonds can’t sleep on; England star set to spark bidding war
World No.1 Diamonds set to reclaim gold | 04:44
“They have got the physicality and their ability to get up for ball, their aerial game is fantastic.”
Former Diamond Madison Browne said Friday’s first game would be about getting all players on the court for their first run.
“Stacey Marinkovich will be focused on harnessing that day one energy and getting everyone out on the court, get everyone settled in,” she said.
“I think Zimbabwe will be a good test for the Diamonds – they are a physical side who play an unorthodox style of netball.”
Follow the Diamonds v Gems in the blog below.
If you can’t see the blog, click here
