Netball: Diamonds departure disrupted by ash cloud

The Australian netball team line up before the second test against New Zealand. Photo / Getty Images

The Australian netball team were among those who had their travel plans disrupted today by the ash cloud from a Chilean volcano.

The Diamonds, who were beaten 45-42 in Auckland last night to draw a two-test series with the Silver Ferns, were due to return to their respective states this morning, but found their flights cancelled.

The Queensland and West Australian-based contingent were able to secure flights later in the day, Netball Australia said.

That was good news for defender Susan Fuhrmann, who has a pharmaceutical exam at Curtin University in Perth tomorrow.

However, the remainder of the squad would spend another night in Auckland.

Netball Australia said the delays had not caused any disruption to the Diamonds' preparations for the defence of their world title in Singapore next month.

The players were due to have time off this week before a pre-tournament training camp in Hong Kong next week.

- NZPA