The Diamonds will be out to atone for last year’s series defeat. Photo: stock
Trans-Tasman netball is coming to Victoria after the 2025 Constellation Cup Test series opener was confirmed for Melbourne.
Sport Minister Steve Dimopoulos says Australia and cup holders NZ will meet at John Cain Arena on Friday, October 17.
“This international netball contest is yet another feather in Melbourne’s brimming cap,” he says.
Netball Australia CEO Stacey West is expecting an “unforgettable” series this year.
“… we know our netball fans will pack out the John Cain Arena stands for a thrilling series opener,” she says.
COACHES COMMENTS
Diamonds head coach Stacey Marinkovich was enthusiastic about having the home advantage to start this year’s Constellation Cup series
“There’s nothing quite like playing in front of our home fans in Australia,” she says.
“The energy and support we receive is unmatched, and it’s always a privilege to represent our country on home soil.”
Silver Ferns head coach Dame Noeline Taurua is looking forward to the Aussie challenge especially after the Silver Ferns hosts South Africa in a series.
“The Constellation Cup is always a fierce battle, and every match against the Diamonds is an opportunity to measure ourselves against one of the best teams in the world. We’ll be looking to put out strong performances both in Australia and on home soil,” she says.
Last year’s Constellation Cup final attracted 9010 to John Cain Arena with nearly a third of those fans from interstate or overseas.
The Test match was secured through Visit Victoria, a major sponsor of the Diamonds, with a Super Netball grand final to be held at Rod Laver Arena in August as well.
Australia will host the first two games of October’s four-match series, firstly in Melbourne then on October 22 at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena.
The teams then travel to New Zealand for games in Hamilton (October 26) and Christchurch (October 29).
The Diamonds lost the Cup series 3-1 last year with NZ hosting the opening two matches.
