The Australian Diamonds are ready to light up Sydney Olympic Park this Wednesday night as they face off against their fierce rivals, the New Zealand Silver Ferns in Game 2 of the Constellation Cup — and fans are being urged to fill the stands and bring the noise.
Returning to the very venue that will host the 2027 Netball World Cup, the clash promises world-class netball, fierce rivalry, and an unforgettable atmosphere under the lights at Qudos Bank Arena.
The Diamonds come into the match riding high after a dominant start to the series, but they know the Silver Ferns will come out fighting.
“We had a really strong start to the series which is great — one of the largest winning margins,” said NSW Swifts and Diamonds defender Sarah Klau ahead of the game.
“They’ll definitely come out firing. They’re quality opposition, and it was goal-for-goal for much of the game until that third quarter where we created that gap. It’s going to be a really tough battle.”
The Constellation Cup has long been one of the netball’s fiercest rivalries — a test of pride, precision and endurance between two powerhouses of world netball.
For Klau, playing in Sydney carries special meaning — both as her home city and as the future stage for the 2027 Netball World Cup.
“It’s really exciting to be home in Sydney and have the fans come and support us on Wednesday night — cheering loud,” she said.
“Having the Constellation Cup here is another major event that builds momentum toward the World Cup. It’s creating that noise and excitement, especially for Sydney residents, but also across the world.”
The Diamonds’ return to Sydney Olympic Park — the historic site of the 2000 Olympic Games — also adds symbolic weight, as netball continues to push for inclusion in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
“We want netball to continue to be the highest-participating female sport, but we’re also growing the male pathways too, which is great to see,” Klau added.
“Having that inclusion in Brisbane would be incredible — I’ll probably be retired by then, but it would be amazing to see both male and female athletes competing equally on that stage.”
As the Diamonds continue their quest for Constellation Cup glory, Klau admits the 2027 World Cup is already on her radar.
“The World Cup is the pinnacle for netball, and we’re so excited it’s coming to Sydney,” she said.
“Training’s been really tough and there’s so much depth within the Diamonds — anything’s possible. For me, it’s about taking opportunities, playing well in the Super Netball season, and continuing to build those combinations.”
Fans are encouraged to get behind the green and gold this Wednesday night at Sydney Olympic Park — the home of Australian netball’s biggest moments — as the Diamonds look to extend their lead over the Silver Ferns and keep the Constellation Cup firmly on home soil.
Frances Cordaro, Netball NSW
