Silver Ferns defeat Diamonds, edge closer to No.1
The New Zealand Silver Ferns defeated the Australian Diamonds 62-50 in the Constellation Cup, moving closer to ending Australia's long-standing world number one ranking. The match was described as a physical 'dogfight' with New Zealand maintaining control throughout.
Why it matters
This result marks a significant shift in international netball power dynamics, potentially ending Australia's decade-long dominance in the sport.
<p>New Zealand are on track to end Australia's long reign as netball world No.1 after pulling off a <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/10/21/live-scores-silver-ferns-v-australia-diamonds/" target="_blank">62-50 triumph</a> to maintain their perfect start to the Constellation Cup.</p> <p>With Kate Moloney back from a finger injury, the Diamonds were determined to bounce back from an opening 56-50 loss in Auckland and end their five-year hoodoo across the Tasman.</p> <p>The visitors cut an 11-goal deficit to three goals at the final break, but the Silver Ferns refused to relinquish their control in a "dogfight" at Christchurch's Wolfbrook Arena on Wednesday night.</p> <p>Last claiming the Constellation Cup in 2024, New Zealand can win back bragging rights when the four-game series heads to Sydney on Sunday.</p> <p>And if the Commonwealth Games champions pull off a complete sweep, it will mean Australia surrenders the top spot on the world rankings for the first time since 2013.</p> <p>Grace Nweke (49 goals/52 attempts)…
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