Wood on track for Tests

A U S T R A L I A N D i a m o n d s coach Lisa Alexander says Townsville product Steph Wood will return from injury in next week’s Constellation Cup clash with New Zealand at Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

The goal attack missed last month’s 60- 55 victory over the Silver Ferns, which clinched the Quad Series title, through injury but is tracking well to return for the opening Constel- lation Cup Test in Brisbane on Sunday before the teams do battle in Townsville next Wednesday.

The 25- year- old helped Sunshine Coast Lightning retain their Suncorp Super Netball title and is part of a newlook Diamonds squad, with several stalwarts retiring after the Commonwealth Games.

“She’s looking really good. I’ll be checking in with her coach tonight and see how she went in her final court session before we assemble in Bris- bane,” Alexander said. “She’s been very closely monitored by our medical staff and we’re very positive about her being able to play.

“It’s only a little niggle but with elite athletes at this level, you want to make sure it’s fine to ensure she plays at her best.

“She’s a very proud Queenslander and this is a great opportunity for her to play in both Constellation Test matches in Queensland.”

Gretel Tippett took advantage of her chance when re- placing Wood against New Zealand last week, nailing all 14 shot attempts and forming a dynamic partnership with skipper and goal shooter Caitlin Bassett.

Alexander said Wood’s return and Tippett’s form would give her the luxury of mixing things up.

“It’s great to have two alternatives, two goal attacks who are very different,” she said.

“It means New Zealand have their work cut out trying to defend that – it’s gives us great variety. We love what Steph brings but also Gretel, and you’ll probably see a lot of changing up there.”

It will be the first time Townsville has hosted a Diamonds Test, with the team making a point of taking games to regional venues in recent years.

“It’s great we get to be able to connect with netballers all around our big country,” Alexander said.

“We know how popular netball is in Townsville so it’s a great opportunity to get out into regional and country Australia and bring some pleasure to the netballers in the area.

“We’re really enjoying the challenge ( of bringing a newlook squad together), and our new coaching staff as well.

“Everything’s new with our group and we’re not putting big expectations on, but expecting we will improve as we work towards the World Cup.”

The match in Townsville will tip off at 7.30pm next Wednesday, October 10.