Netball: Ferns confirm Australia and Jamaica tests

Ruth Aitken

The Silver Ferns' preparation to defend their world title has taken a step forward following confirmation of five tests against their major rivals, Australia and Jamaica.

Netball New Zealand today announced a two-test visit by Jamaica in mid-July, a precursor to a three-test series against their trans-Tasman rivals.

Confirmation of the matches against the two viable obstacles to the Silver Ferns retaining their world crown in Auckland in November means netball's three leading nations will hold few secrets when the championships begin.

Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken said playing five tests against top opposition was an important part of their preparations.

"Australia and Jamaica always provide strong competition and it will be great to face them in July," she said.

Jamaica will play two tests in Australia before crossing the Tasman to play in Christchurch on July 12 and Auckland two days later.

The three-test Fisher and Paykel series pits New Zealand against Australia in Auckland on July 18 before they meet again on July 21 and 24 in venues yet to be confirmed.

- NZPA