The Australian Diamonds defeated the Silver Ferns 69–52 in the opening Constellation Cup test in Melbourne after a dominant final quarter.
New Zealand matched the world champions through three periods, trailing just 44–40 before the Diamonds surged ahead 24–11 in the last spell.
Martina Salmon and Catherine Hall made their debuts, with Salmon supporting Grace Nweke, who scored 37 goals, while Sophie Garbin netted 42 for Australia.
Despite strong early defence and a close halftime margin of 30–28, the Ferns struggled to disrupt the Diamonds’ attacking rhythm and will seek a stronger defensive effort in Wednesday’s second test in Sydney.
Keep whining about your coaches girls , it’s worked out as well as anyone with a touch of commonsense expected it to.