SPAR Proteas Ready to Face World Champions in Australia
Bendigo – The SPAR Proteas are gearing up to compete against the reigning world champions, the Australian Diamonds, in a three-match series staged across three Australian states.
Having arrived in Australia earlier this week, South Africa comes off the back of a recent series against New Zealand.
Ranked fifth in the World Netball Rankings, the SPAR Proteas enter this series with high motivation, aiming to build upon their past performances.
Head coach Jenny van Dyk has selected a squad of 15 players, which includes two new faces: Entle Futshane and Juanita van Tonder.
Van Dyk emphasized that for the Proteas to establish themselves among the elite globally, they need to consistently compete against and challenge higher-ranked teams.
Alongside the coach is her captain, Khanyisa Chawane, who recently celebrated her 100th test appearance for the SPAR Proteas.
Chawane highlighted the importance of performing strongly against the reigning champions and the impact of securing a victory.
“As a team, we approach this series with great confidence,” remarked SPAR Proteas Captain Khanyisa Chawane.
“Reflecting on our recent performance against New Zealand, we believe we are evolving, and we aim to leverage that momentum in this series.
“Though we remain cautious, we understand the expectations placed upon us. Leading this team is a privilege I value greatly, and I am proud of the strides we’ve made as a young squad.
“We’re here to compete and also to prepare for the Commonwealth Games. Every player should arrive there (CWG) fully aware of their responsibilities.”
The two nations have faced each other 46 times, with the Diamonds having won every match to date.
The SPAR Proteas are eager to change this narrative as swiftly as possible. Their last encounter was in Hobart in 2023.
Head Coach Jenny van Dyk mentioned that her team is adapting well and expressed her gratitude for the absence of injuries to manage.
“We’ve held numerous training sessions and practice matches to adjust to the new umpires – it’s been a beneficial experience overall,” said Van Dyk.
“This recent series was essential in equipping us for future challenges.
“I can confidently state that we’re in a good place at the moment with decreased pressure.
“We arrive here with substantial self-confidence and recognize that we can position ourselves among the top teams worldwide.”
Van Dyk acknowledged that while the team knows what works for them, there is a need to elevate their performance to achieve the results they seek.
“It’s crucial to manage our momentum and ensure we play four strong quarters,” highlighted Van Dyk.
“The team is moving in the right direction.
“We are clear on our goals.
“My players are capable of delivering outstanding performances against the best.”
Fixtures:
- Saturday, 04 October – 11:30
South Africa v Australia
Red Energy Stadium, Bendigo
- Wednesday, 08 October – 10:30
South Africa v Australia
Wollongong Entertainment Centre, Wollongong
- Sunday, 12 October – 07:30
South Africa v Australia
Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
All three matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport Variety 4.
Head-to-head stats
2016 = Australia 68-43 South Africa (Auckland)
2017 = Australia 62-46 South Africa (Durban)
2017 = Australia 58-52 South Africa (Canberra)
2018 = Australia 54-50 South Africa (London)
2018 = Australia 60-38 South Africa (Gold Coast)
2018 = Australia 61-44 South Africa (Auckland)
2019 = Australia 62-45 South Africa (Liverpool)
2019 = Australia 55-53 South Africa (Liverpool)
2022 = Australia 60-40 South Africa (London)
2022 = Australia 74-49 South Africa (Birmingham)
2023 = Australia 65-48 South Africa (Cape Town)
2023 = Australia 62-43 South Africa (Cairns)
2023 = Australia 67-52 South Africa (Hobart)
2023 = Australia 77-50 South Africa (Hobart)