Tough job for Diamonds selectors ahead of Commonwealth Games

DIAMONDS coach Lisa Alexander says she is working with the strongest Australian squad she has ever seen, making the selection of the Commonwealth Games 12 the most difficult ever.

Caitlin Bassett is expected to lead Australia at the Commonwealth Games.

• Diamonds lifting to new level says Simpson
• Teenage Sevens star scores dream job
• Swifts, Giants to spar with England

DIAMONDS coach Lisa Alexander says she is working with the strongest Australian squad she has ever seen, making the selection of the Commonwealth Games 12 the most difficult ever.

The Caitlin Bassett captained Diamonds take on New Zealand in their final match of the international Quad series on the weekend in South Africa after starting their campaign with a win over South Africa and England.

LAURA GEITZ: Chasing a dream as a new mum

TOUGH JOB: Why you wouldn’t want to be a netball selector!

“We have one of the, if not the, strongest squad we have ever had,’’ Alexander said.

“That’s going to make the decision harder than ever. It means the decision is going to be very difficult.

Erin Burger faces off against Caitlin Bassett (centre) and Kim Ravaillion of Australia in a recent Test match.

“What we are after is seeing who can put big performances together under pressure.

“It is a really fit squad. They are mentally strong.

“And they don’t take the opportunity to represent their country lightly.’’

After the game against New Zealand the Diamonds head home to wait for the team announcement in February.

LAUREUS AWARD: Wright, Pearson in the running

MAN OVERBOARD: More knots of wind, black, you’re dead

Australia has been drawn alongside Jamaica, South Africa, Barbados, Fiji and Northern Ireland in Pool A for the Commonwealth Games where they are attempting to win their fourth crown from six outings in the Games arena.

Caitlin Bassett is expected to lead Australia at the Commonwealth Games.

Pool B will feature world No. 2 ranked New Zealand, England, Malawi, Wales, Scotland and Uganda.

FINAL CURTAIN: AFLW star Erin Phillips retires from basketball

COMMONWEALTH GAMES: Netball stars remain in the mix

Alexander said the team for the Games will be unveiled on February 5 with the 12 selected, along with four training partners, to attend another camp in March.

Originally published as Tough job for Diamonds selectors ahead of Commonwealth Games