Changes to netball Diamonds ahead of World Cup rematch with Silver Ferns

CHANGES have been made to the Diamonds as coach Lisa Alexander prepares for a New Zealand backlash in Sydney.

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CHANGES have been made to the make-up of the Diamonds as coach Lisa Alexander prepares for a New Zealand backlash when the two powers of netball return to the site of last year’s World Cup decider in Sydney.

Defender Jo Weston and shooter Gretel Tippett have been added to the Diamonds’ squad for the four-match Constellation Cup against New Zealand which kick off in Sydney on October 9.

Kristina Manua and Stephanie Wood, who both made their debuts for the Diamonds in the recent Quad series, have made way for the changes.

Gretel Tippett and Maddy Turner battle for the ball in the trans-Tasman league.

Coach Alexander said the new additions will give the Diamonds more options as the Australian team bids to end the international year undefeated.

But she will be demanding an improved performance from her team despite the Diamonds defeating the Silver ferns by five goals in their last encounter earlier this month.

“I want them to play better and with more creativity,’’ Alexander said.

“I think we need to be a bit more unpredictable.’’

Gretel Tippett is back in the green and gold.

Australia beat New Zealand 58-55 in the World Cup final last year with the rematch of the decider to be played at Qudos Bank Arena on October 9.

Clare McMeniman has been named as acting captain with Sharni Layton and Caitlin Bassett the acting vice-captains.

Australia celebrates victory after winning the 2015 Netball World Cup in Sydney.

Australian Diamonds 2016 Constellation Cup Team

Name (state of origin/2016 ANZ Championship team)

Caitlin Bassett (Western Australia, West Coast Fever)

April Brandley (New South Wales, West Coast Fever)

Sharni Layton (Victoria, NSW Swifts)

Clare McMeniman (Queensland, Queensland Firebirds)

Natalie Medhurst (South Australia, West Coast Fever)

Kim Ravaillion (New South Wales, Queensland Firebirds)

Madi Robinson (Victoria, Melbourne Vixens)

Gabi Simpson (New South Wales, Queensland Firebirds)

Caitlin Thwaites (Victoria, NSW Swifts)

Gretel Tippett (Queensland, Queensland Firebirds)

Liz Watson (Victoria, Melbourne Vixens)

Jo Weston (Victoria, Melbourne Vixens)