Congratulations to the Aussie Diamonds, who last week secured the 2023 Quad Series following an impressive victory over New Zealand, defeating the Silver Ferns 56-50.

The final match of the series saw the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallists fight back after New Zealand took an early lead, making the most of opportunities as they came while providing immense defensive pressure.

Down by four points at the first break, increased pressure in the second quarter saw the Diamonds go into the halftime break only one goal down.

Stepping up in the third quarter, the Diamonds broke out to a four-goal lead in the final break, setting up a blockbuster final quarter against the tenacious Silver Ferns.

Remaining calm under pressure from New Zealand, the Diamonds nonetheless charged home to take the win by six goals, claiming their seventh Quad Series in the process.

Goal shoot Cara Koenen starred for Australia as she finished 33 from 34 with welcome support from goal attack Steph Wood’s 23 from 28.

Courtney Bruce was also named as Defender of the Tournament, conceding only 62 goals in the tournament, and finishing with 18 gains, 11 intercepts, nine deflections and five rebounds.

“Really, really happy with that one, we were able to play New Zealand two times while we were here and I think we felt it in that second match,” said Australia captain Liz Watson.

“It’s really good confidence-building for us, we put out a really great last quarter, that’s what we’ve been wanting to do this whole series so it’s great to have that win.”

The final win came off the back of their three previous undefeated matches, which saw Australia take wins over England, New Zealand, and South Africa.

The Diamonds now set their sights firmly on the 2023 Netball World Cup, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa from 28 July – 6 August.