New Zealand opens Constellation Cup series with win over Australia
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 18, 2026, 10:41 AM
Last updated Oct 18, 2026
New Zealand's Silver Ferns secured a 56-50 victory against Australia's Diamonds to kick off the Constellation Cup series on October 18, 2026, at Spark Arena in Auckland. Grace Nweke led the Silver Ferns with 40 goals from 41 attempts. This match follows Australia's disappointing bronze medal finish at the Commonwealth Games, marking a period of transition for the world No. 1 team as they deal with key absences. The Silver Ferns’ performance signals their ambition to redefine the competitive in netball. The series continues with more matches scheduled.
- •Silver Ferns win 56-50 to open the Constellation Cup series.
- •Grace Nweke scores 40 goals from 41 attempts.
- •Match takes place at Spark Arena in Auckland.
- •Diamonds miss key players Jo Weston and Kate Moloney.
- •Australia's recent history includes a bronze finish at the Commonwealth Games.
- 10:41 AMThe Guardian Sport — Netball enters brave new world as New Zealand stun Australia
"Silver Ferns win 56-50 to open Constellation Cup series Grace Nweke 40 from 41 against world No 1 Diamonds New Zealand signalled their intent to set a new netball world order after stunning the Diamonds to kick off the Constellation Cup. The Commonwealth Games gold medallists picked up in Auckland where they left off in Glasgow with a 56-50 series-opening win at Spark Arena on Sunday. Experienced Diamonds duo Jo Weston (managed) and Kate Moloney (finger) were sorely missed by the world No 1 outfit, who were left in tears in Glasgow after settling for a bronze medal. Australia had suffered a shock semi-final defeat to Jamaica to miss a gold medal match for the first time since the sport joined the Games program in 1998. Continue reading...
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