NSW Swifts, Queensland Firebirds dominate Diamonds team for netball series

SIX players from the Queensland Firebirds and NSW Swifts have made the cut for the Australian Diamonds upcoming Quad series against New Zealand, South Africa and England

Kim Green and Gabi Simpson in a tight tussle in the grand final.

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SIX players from the memorable 2016 ANZ Championship decider between the Queensland Firebirds and NSW Swifts have made the cut for the Australian Diamonds upcoming Quad series against New Zealand, South Africa and England.

Stellar defender Sharni Layton and shooter Caitlin Thwaites have both been named from the Swifts side along with shooter Steph Wood, who will likely make her international debut in the series.

Stephanie Wood, centre, will make her international debut.

Firebirds players to contest the series are Kim Ravaillion, Gabi Simpson and Clare McMeniman who were all on the court during the Firebirds thrilling two-goal extra time win.

Other players from both teams, who played a game rated as one of the best netball matches ever seen in Australia last Sunday, have been named in the Diamonds extended squad.

Layton with be co-captain of the Diamonds for the Quad series along with Caitlin Bassett, with McMeniman resuming the position of acting captain in the absence of Laura Geitz. Young NSW defender Kristiana Manu’a, who played for Magic in New Zealand this year, has also made the cut.

The Quad series starts August 27 in New Zealand.

NSW Swifts player Sharni Layton has been named as Diamonds co-captain.

“Last weekend’s ANZ Championship Grand Final demonstrated that our athletes play with fortitude and dogged determination,” said Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander.

“Our Quad Series team features a mixture of exciting young talent and more experienced Diamonds, who will be ready for strong contests against England, New Zealand and South Africa.

After the Quad series, selectors will name a New Australian team for the Constellation Cup between the Diamonds and Silver Ferns.

“With less than two years until the Commonwealth Games, our priority is managing athlete wellbeing and building our squad, ensuring those who need a break are rested, and those that require international experience are provided with opportunities,” Alexander said.