#Glasgow2014 Preview: Netball

The Commonwealth Games are often referred to as the “Friendly Games”. However, there will be no misplaced friendship mistaking the rivalry between the world’s best two netball nations as Australia and New Zealand go head to head for gold in Glasgow.

In terms of both rivalry and sporting cliché, the Australian Diamonds and New Zealand Silver Ferns are the best of enemies. Yet unquestionably, both sides hold the highest regard for the other, matched only by the same steely determination to win the sport’s highest prize over their foe.

New Zealand has held ownership of the Commonwealth title, whilst Australia managed victory at the most recent world championship decider in 2011. In both finals, nothing could separate the sides, with extra-time required to determine a winner.

Without discounting the merits of England, nor the unpredictable brilliance of Jamaica, it is anticipated, even expected, that Australia will meet New Zealand in the gold medal match on Sunday August 3.

Australia starts its quest for Commonwealth gold on Thursday July 24 from 8.30pm Perth time, in a match it should comfortably win over Wales. The Diamonds then face; England, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and South Africa to round-out their path to the semi-finals.

Provided the Diamonds can win through the semi-final stage on Saturday August 2, a date with destiny awaits.

Two Western Australian Institute of Sport scholarship holders are in the Diamonds squad, with shooting combo Caitlin Bassett and Natalie Medhurst likely to lead Australia’s attack into battle. For Bassett, she will hope to reprise her winning goal in 2011’s World Championship winning final over the Silver Ferns in Singapore.

Competition will take place in the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, where 12 competing nations will challenge for one gold medal. The fast and furious pace typified by netball will likely see it once again, a highlight of the Commonwealth Games program.