Opening the Quad Series with a 65-39 victory over England was made more special by the presence of two debutants in the Silver Ferns' line-up, according to centre Laura Langman.
Laura Langman in the Netball Quad Series match between New Zealand and England. Photo: PhotoSport
See how the match unfolded here in RNZ's live blog.
Jane Watson and Te Paea Selby-Rickit were each given court time by the coach Janine Southby who also began her international career with the win.
Watson was only called into the team on Friday to provide cover for the injured Anna Harrison.
The Southern Steel goal keep had an impressive 31 minutes on the boards at Vector Arena snaring three intercepts, while Selby-Rickit landed two goals in her nine minutes on court at goal attack.
Jane Watson on debut. Photo: Photosport
"It's always good to get the international calendar underway with a win," said Langman.
"We were able to get a couple of debutants out there which is wicked... Great to get them into international netball to get a feel and see what it's like."
The Silver Ferns goal shoot Bailey Mes shot 40 goals from 43 attempts and was named the game's most valuable player.
Bailey Mes is challenged by England`s Captain Ama Agbeze. Photo: Photosport
Langman said the Silver Ferns will need to increase the defensive pressure in their next game of the Quad Series against South Africa in Hamilton on Wednesday.
Earlier on Saturday, Australia demolished South Africa 68-43 at the same venue.
The Diamonds host England on Wednesday in Adelaide, before the third and final round of the series on Sunday in Melbourne.
