Silver Ferns set for South African sojourn

  • 23/01/2017

The Silver Ferns are in the airand bound for South Africa, breaking new ground of on one of their toughest assignments.

New Zealand open the Quad Series against the old enemy Australia on Sunday, before matches against the England Roses and the Proteas in England. The tour concludes with a two-Test series against Wales in Cardiff.

It’s a big challenge for coach Janine Southby, who’s brought two debutants into the squad.

Rotorua-product Sam Sinclair, the 21-year-old never having travelled further than Australia, and 22-year-old Kelly Jury, who willl provide some defensive steel with her 192cm frame.

"I'm super-excited and so lucky to be going. The Quad Series is a big competition and I have to admit I'm a bit nervous," said Sinclair.

"But I just want to get out there and do my job and not stuff up too many times."

The Ferns have had a few months off, but Southby is confident they’ll be ready to face the world’s best.

"We've been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the trip," said Southby.

"The girls have been back with their franchises and getting good base fitness work done. And we know we have to iron out the cobwebs as soon as possible.

"There are lots of challenges in terms of travelling with two different climates and games in a short space of time, but the medical team have put together a plan so we can quickly adjust our body clocks."

She admits it’s a bit different not having former captain and leader Laura Langman on board.

"She was a valued member of the team, obviously, so we need to find out who can take over her many roles and it’s a great opportunity for other leaders to step up."

SILVER FERNS SCHEDULE    

Quad Series
NZ vs Australian Diamonds, Jan 29, Durban, SA – 2am
NZ vs England Roses, Feb 3, Echo Arena, Liverpool, Eng – 8.30am
NZ vs SPAR Proteas, Feb 4, SSE Arena, Wembley, Eng – 4.15am

Wales Series
NZ vs Wales, Feb 8, Ice Arena, Cardiff, Wales – 8.30am
NZ vs Wales, Feb 9, Cardiff – 8.30am

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