Constellation Cup 2019: Silver Ferns stick with Netball World Cup formula

Silver Ferns coach Noeline Taurua has stuck to a winning formula, naming most of her Netball World Cup-winning side for next month's Constellation Cup series against Australia.

Defender Michaela Sokolich-Beatson comes in for veteran Casey Kopua, who announced her retirement at the end of the World Cup campaign in July.

The rest of the squad remains, but shooter Maia Wilson has been added for the two tests across the Tasman in Sydney and Perth. 

Midcourt Laura Langman will captain the team.

"The Constellation Cup is an opportunity for us to continue to grow and learn as a group, and build on the gains we had made at the Netball World Cup," said Taurua. 

"We cannot afford to rest on our laurels and think one Cup is enough. The players who have been selected have once again met the fitness standards that are required to play the international game.

"The trans-Tasman battle is arguably one of the fiercest netball rivalries ever. The Constellation Cup now has an added sting to it, considering our last encounter at the worlds."

Silver Ferns players celebrate winning the Netball World Cup
Silver Ferns players celebrate winning the Netball World Cup Photo credit: Photosport

Meanwhile, former New Zealand defender and coach Yvonne Willering, and Australian Jane Woodlands-Thompson will serve as assistant coaches for the tour, with regular Deb Fuller unavailable for the series. 

"Yvonne and Jane are master coaches," Taurua added. "They have so many years of experience behind them. 

"They will bring fresh ideas, challenge our thinking, strengthen our current strategies and help us to continue to grow our game. Personally, I feel privileged to work alongside them.

"It has been an amazing year for the Silver Ferns in winning the Netball World Cup. It is important that we build on the momentum from that experience and strengthen our base, so we can consistently perform at the highest level. 

"This Constellation Cup is the first step in the overall plan."

The Silver Ferns will come into camp in Christchurch on October 8 to prepare for the two tests in New Zealand, with the first match scheduled for five days later at Horncastle Arena.

The second Constellation Cup encounter at Auckland's Spark Arena on October 16 will mark the 150th test between the two nations.

Silver Ferns: Laura Langman (captain), Karin Burger, Gina Crampton, Ameliaranne Ekenasio, Maria Folau, Phoenix Karaka, Bailey Mes, Katrina Rore, Shannon Saunders, Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Michaela Sokolich-Beatson, Jane Watson, Maia Wilson (Australian leg only).

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