Diamonds

Despite the slump of form since the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the Silver Ferns are showing promising signs entering the final rounds with only one loss to their name against Australia where they fell by a single goal 49 to 50.

The Silver Ferns haven't missed a World Cup final since 1995 and its clear they want to keep it that way.

That year in Birmingham former Silver Fern shooter Irene Van Dyk not only led the South African Proteas to a 59-57 win, booking a finals spot against Australia, but they broke New Zealand hearts in one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

A month ago, there were real fears surrounding the Australian side after a stunning Quad Series loss in Invercargill.

But four wins and an average margin of 12 goals left no doubt: this is the team to beat in next year’s Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

Coach Lisa Alexander said it was a “very positive” performance made all the sweeter for the anxiety surrounding the Diamonds’ form a month ago

Silver Ferns coach Janine Southby could only lament her side’s lack of connections, something she thinks can only be addressed with more time together.

After edging the Kiwis 57-54 in Auckland three days ago, Australia were ruthlessly efficient across all four quarters at Horncastle Arena.