Lack of consistency

The Silver Ferns were out- played by Australia in two of the four games in the Quad Series. They were blown off the court in the opening test, having looked ill- prepared for the intensity Australia would bring. They summoned all their effort to respond with a win in Tasmania, only to lose the resolve in game three. While they came ready to play in Thursday night’s final test in Invercargill, rookie errors at inopportune times cost them the chance of drawing the series.

The Silver Ferns have become renowned for being able to win the odd one- off match against Australia, but haven’t been able to do so consistently. Unfortunately the Quad Series only further underlined that reputation. will be ineligible for the Ferns next season, having taken up a contract in the Australian League in 2017.

Langman’s loss will be keenly felt. She was easily New Zealand’s best player this year, while the influence she has off the court is immeasurable. There is a danger the competitive gap between New Zealand and Australia will widen even further without Langman in the middle next season.