REIGNING Quad Series champion Australia was able to claim a memorable win in the 2022 edition, getting up with a stunning last quarter to defeat England in the final. There was plenty to like about the Diamonds’ series, with consistent performances each match, and a showcase of fresh faces, as well their reminder to the world what the world number ones are capable of on the international stage.

WHAT WENT RIGHT?

Winning the series for a start. There was little to fault about the Diamonds’ campaign, comfortably taking care of rivals New Zealand, before accounting for the Proteas rather easily in the second match. A draw with England in the final game before fighting back to win the final was ultra-impressive, with the 18-5 final term one to remember. Gretel Bueta returned to the netball court after missing the 2021 Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) season with ease, winning Player of the Series, whilst Steph Wood and Ash Brazill – a couple of players who missed recent international series for various reasons – came back with a vengeance. From Sarah Klau in defence through to Liz Watson in attack, it was hard not to love what the Diamonds did.

WHAT WENT WRONG?

There were only two real moments of vulnerability for the Diamonds in the series. After being in control against the Roses in the final group match, they let the home nation back into the game for a draw. Then in the final, they looked in trouble during the middle of the match, before regrouping at the final break and storming home. The experienced lineup was able to build up the pressure and force the Roses to make mistakes, then hardly missed a beat when shooting, showing that the Diamonds remain the team to beat at the Commonwealth Games later this year.

WHO IMPRESSED?

Aside from Bueta who took out the Player of the Series, there were plenty of stars wearing green and gold. Watson returned to the international side after also missing the 2021 SSN season and stood out at wing attack, while Paige Hadley did well rotating through that role and centre. Klau had impact moments coming onto court, and with Sophie Garbin and Jamie-Lee Price used off the bench, the depth of the Diamonds was superb.

SURPRISE PACKET

It is hard to look past Sunday Aryang, who made her debut in goal defence. She was outstanding back there alongside West Coast Fever teammate Courtney Bruce and could be in the mix for the Commonwealth Games later this year. Her ability to intercept and showcase athleticism was easily transitioned from the national to the international stage, and still being young, she has plenty of upside for the future.

OVERALL

The Australia Diamonds had a great 2022 Quad Series, taking out their sixth overall title in the competition. Having been pushed by the Roses right to the end, Australia stepped up in the final term with an 18-5 quarter to win the series and lift the trophy aloft once again.