Experienced goalshoot Maria Tutaia returns to a new look Silver Ferns squad for the opening game of the three test series against England tonight.
Silver Fern goal attack Maria Tutaia Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Silver Ferns claimed the Quad Series for the first time on Sunday with a confident 57-47 victory over Australia in Invercargill.
The 108-cap Tutaia missed that game, along with the Fern's 59-54 loss to England last week, due to bereavement leave.
Coach Janine Southby has shuffled her team for the up-coming three game series replacing shoooter Maia Wilson, defender Phoenix Karaka, and midcourters Sam Sinclair and Whitney Souness with Monica Falkner, Temalisi Fakahokotau, Kayla Cullen and Grace Rasmussen respectively.
Janine Southby (left) Photo: Photosport
Southby said the three test series against England gives her the chance to test players building towards next April's Commonwealth Games.
"We're looking long term. There are a number of combinations that we want to look at and ultimately we want a team of 12 who push each other and challenge for spots and who we can use for different teams that we come up against."
"There are decisions still to be made obviously but it is exciting we've got players putting their hands up for selection.'
Southby said while the team was confident after their Invercargill performance she was wary of the resurgent England team.
"They are pleased with their efforts obviously but we're a new team this week and we've got a new challenge ahead of us. One game does not make a season - we have to back that up."
"We respect England. They've really improved over the last 12 months and it is great that we've got all this competition in international netball now."
For every team, you go out there and you have to be at your best to win."
The second Test is in Napier on Sunday and the third in Hamilton on Wednesday.
SILVER FERNS TEAM - TAINI JAMISON TROPHY
Katrina Grant (captain)
Maria Tutaia (vice-captain)
Kayla Cullen
Gina Crampton
Temalisi Fakahokotau
Monica Falkner (on debut)
Shannon Francois
Kelly Jury
Bailey Mes
Grace Rasmussen
Te Paea Selby-Rickit
Jane Watson
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