The Proteas netball team is set to battle with Australia in a World Championship in a three-match series. Image: The South African
(The Post News)– The SPAR Proteas are getting ready to play the reigning world champions, the Australian Diamonds, in a three-match series across three different states. The South Africans arrived in Australia earlier this week after their recent game against New Zealand.
Ranked fifth in the World Netball Rankings, the SPAR Proteas are eager to maintain their form and seek better results against top-tier teams.
The Head coach for SPAR Proteas, Jenny van Dyk, has chosen a 15-player squad for the tour, which includes two debutants, Entle Futshane and Juanita van Tonder. Van Dyk emphasized that for SPAR Proteas to improve among the world’s best, the team needs to regularly challenge themselves against higher-ranked nations.
Captain Khanyisa Chawane, who recently achieved her 100th cap, agreed with her coach. She mentioned that the team is inspired by their performance against New Zealand and wants to carry that momentum forward.
“As a team, we are confident as we go into this series. We have shown growth in recent matches and will build on that. At the same time, we know the challenges of playing against the best,” Chawane said. “Leading this group is a privilege. We are still a young team, but we are here to compete and prepare for the Commonwealth Games. No player should arrive there feeling uncertain about what is needed.”
Australia and South Africa have played against each other 46 times, with the Diamonds winning each match. The Proteas are determined to change that, as their last encounter was in Hobart in 2023.
Coach Van Dyk shared her satisfaction with the team’s preparation so far. She noted that there are no injury concerns. “We have had good training sessions and warm-up games. We are adjusting to the new umpiring styles, which has been positive. The series against New Zealand was important for shaping our future direction. Right now, the team feels relaxed, confident, and clear about what works for us.
“It is about controlling the momentum and delivering consistently across all four quarters. We need to put together strong performances. The players are ready to challenge the best, and we feel confident about the path we are on,” she said.
Fixtures:
Saturday, 4 October, 11:30 am
South Africa vs Australia, Red Energy Stadium, Bendigo
Wednesday, 8 October, 10:30 am
South Africa vs. Australia, Wollongong Entertainment Centre, Wollongong
Sunday, 12 October, 07:30 am
South Africa vs. Australia, Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
About the Author
