TO prepare for the first netball test in the Constellation Cup, the Diamonds took on the Australian under-21 team in Invercargill on Tuesday.
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The talented under-age team, who are also in New Zealand for the tour, provided the Diamonds with a strong hit-out before their first match against the Kiwis on Thursday.
Bendigo defender Chloe Watson is a part of the development team, while Commonwealth Games gold medallist Caitlin Thwaites and veteran defender Rebecca Bulley have been selected in the Diamonds' squad.
Australian head coach Lisa Alexander said the future of the national team was shinning bright.
“It was a terrific hit out, the Australian under-21 team really brought it, particularly when they beat us in that last quarter,” she said.
“They brought a lot of intensity and physicality, particularly in the fourth quarter, which is a great thing for us to have that practice match before we hit the Silver Ferns, so I’m grateful to have them over here.”
The Silver Ferns host the first Test of the 2014 Constellation Cup at ILT Stadium Southland from 4.30pm (AEST) on Thursday.