On Sunday, the world’s second-ranked Silver Ferns beat the Proteas 77–51 in Auckland in the first Test of the season. This victory extended New Zealand’s dominance over South Africa, giving them their 37th win in 39 encounters between the two nations.

The sides last met at the 2023 Netball World Cup in Cape Town, where they played out a dramatic 48-all draw. That fixture was also the first time since 2018 that South Africa faced New Zealand on home soil.

Jamie van Wyk. Photo: New Zealand Netball

The Silver Ferns got off to a flying start against the Proteas, racing to a commanding 20–8 lead after the first quarter. Despite a valiant fight, South Africa couldn’t quite recover.

The Proteas’ attacking duo, Rolene Streutker and Kamogelo Maseko, struggled to find their rhythm early, combining for just eight goals from 15 attempts. Coach Jenny van Dyk made a tactical change, introducing Elmere van der Berg in the second quarter, and she made an immediate impact. However, New Zealand maintained control, dominating the quarter 21–14 and leading 41–22 at half-time.

In the third quarter, Van Dyk turned to her bench, bringing in Tarle Mathe, Nichole Breedt, and Jamie van Wyk to inject fresh energy. Midway through, the Proteas suffered a blow when captain Khanyisa Chawane was forced off with an injury, with Maseko returning to the court. The Silver Ferns capitalised, taking the quarter 17–13 and extending their lead to 58–35.

South Africa continued to battle in the final quarter, showing glimpses of resilience, but the Silver Ferns’ composure, speed, and clinical finishing saw them close out a 77–51 victory.

Following the defeat, Van Dyk admitted it was a disappointing result, but said it would motivate the team to bounce back in the second Test.

“We are obviously disappointed with the result; this is not how we were hoping the game would end,” said Van Dyk.

Jenny van Dyk and Zanele Mdodana - Netball SA

“The damage was done in the first quarter – the speed, the precision, the momentum. We had done our homework and prepared as best we could. This is not the start we wanted, but we will go back, regroup, and work on improving.

“This is not how we envisioned starting our international campaign. Our players now understand that there is a standard we need to adhere to. We need to put in the work and level up. We have a lot to do before the next match, and that is exactly what we are going to do.”

The second Test in Napier is scheduled to start at 9:40 on Wednesday.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek