The Fast5 World Netball Series begins tomorrow in Melbourne. Netball writer Jeff Cheshire looks at New Zealand’s chances and explains just what Fast5 is.
Strengths
Strong shooting line-up. Maria Tutaia offers range to exploit two and three-point shots and Te Paea Selby-Rickit impressed against Australia in the Constellation Cup. Youthful team, but seven players have experience with the Silver Ferns. Athletic defensive line-up, which will be useful in the faster-paced game.
Weaknesses
Losing midcourter Kayla Cullen and shooter Ameliaranne Ekenasio to injury were blows. Looks light in the midcourt, with only youngsters Gina Crampton and Sam Sinclair as genuine options and Phoenix Karaka expected to provide cover if needed.
Southern flavour
The Southern Steel is well-represented with Crampton, Jamie Hume, Storm Purvis, Selby-Rickit and Jane Watson all involved in the 2016 set-up. Four of that group made their Silver Ferns’ debuts this year, while Hume was a triallist for the national side after an impressive season for South in the national league. It is yet another acknowledgement of the Steel’s outstanding season and a sign the franchise is in good shape.
What is Fast5?
Netball’s abbreviated version. Five players on the court and six-minute quarters. Shots can be made from scoring zones worth either one, two or three points. Teams choose one quarter to act as a power play in which its points are doubled. Six teams compete in a round robin over two days, before playing off for placings.
Pros
A fun event, shows off different skill sets, get to see lots of different teams play, good chance to develop youngsters, New Zealand has won five of the six tournaments to date, Australia has not won any.
Cons
Not taken particularly seriously, needs to be consumed in moderation, many of the best players not there, lacks the intensity and grind of a full game.
Fast5 World Netball Series
New Zealand squad: Gina Crampton, Jamie Hume, Kelly Jury, Phoenix Karaka, Storm Purvis, Te Paea Selby-Rickit, Sam Sinclair, Maria Tutaia, Jane Watson and Maia Wilson.
Opponents
Saturday: 3.15pm v England; 5.30pm v South Africa; 7.45pm v Australia
Sunday: 1.45pm v Jamaica; 3.15pm v Malawi. Playoff matches from 5.45pm, final at 7.25pm.
