Birmingham Commonwealth Games: Silver Ferns reach semi-finals with huge victory over Trinidad and Tobago

The Silver Ferns have reached the semi-finals of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, maintaining their so far perfect record with an 80-24 victory over Trinidad and Tobago.

With victories against Northern Ireland, Uganda and Malawi already in the bag, Wednesday's victory assures Dame Noeline Taurua's side a spot in the next round regardless of what happens in their final pool match - played against hosts England on Friday.

Te Paea Selby-Rickit against Trinidad and Tobago.
Te Paea Selby-Rickit against Trinidad and Tobago. Photo credit: Image - Getty Images

Breaching the 80-goal mark, Grace Nweke led the way for the Ferns against Trinidad and Tobago with 37 from 39 attempts, as Maia Wilson scored 16 from 16.

Off the bench, Te Paea Selby-Rickit added 19 from her 22 shots, while Bailey Mes scored 8 from 10 after also playing a stint at wing attack.

Outside of the shooting circle, the pair of Whitney Souness and Kate Heffernan also impressed, pleasing Dame Noeline who was able to rotate her side throughout the match.

"I'm pleased with the adaptability, versatility and intent within our 12 to show some really good skillsets and I'm really happy coming out of that one,'' Dame Noeline said.

"That game was already in bed by halftime and I think the discipline around ensuring we worked through our strategy and kept [the] ball in hand was at times really good.

"I'm really happy with the growth I've seen from this group. We're doing the best that we can, I've seen massive shifts and growth in each individual, so I'm happy.''

Four years on from becoming the first New Zealand netball side to fail to medal at a Commonwealth Games, the Silver Ferns' class of 2022 has the chance for Kiwi redemption.

The Silver Ferns sit second in Pool B, behind England, with the two sides to decide who'll top the group on Friday - both with four wins from their four matches played.

In Pool A, Australia holds the top spot with Jamaica second, also both boasting perfect four from four records.