Diamonds wary

NETBALL: Australia’s Diamonds are bracing for a physical and high-octane affair when they take on South Africa in today’s Quad Series opener.

The world champions go into their match in the double-header at Auckland’s Vector Arena as strong favourites over the world No.5 outfit, having thrashed them 63-31 in the 2015 World Cup group stages.

But defender April Brandley, touted as a potential replacement for absent skipper Laura Geitz, was cautious of a side coached by former Australian mentor Norma Plummer.

“It’s going to be a very fast-paced game,” the 26-year-old Brandley said.

Hosts New Zealand take on England in the other match.