Silver Ferns to Compete in Five-Test Series Against England and Scotland

The Silver Ferns will engage in a five-test series against Scotland and England as part of their preparation for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The tour, scheduled for November, includes two matches against the Scottish Thistles followed by three encounters with the England Roses. The series begins on November 15 at the Copper Box Arena in London and continues with a match in Manchester.

This northern tour is a crucial element of the Silver Ferns’ strategy leading up to the Commonwealth Games, which will take place in 2026. Traditionally, the team participates in a January series in the Northern Hemisphere, but that did not happen this year. The Silver Ferns last faced England in the Taini Jamison series, where they suffered a 2-1 defeat. The upcoming matches will challenge the Silver Ferns against a formidable opponent, currently ranked fourth in the world.

Significance of the Tour

Dame Noeline Taurua, head coach of the Silver Ferns, emphasized the importance of this tour as they aim to build on their competitive experience. “I’m absolutely thrilled about the opportunity to head north for this series in November,” she stated, noting the personal significance of returning to Scotland. Taurua completed her Masters of Sport Coaching at the University of Stirling, which adds a layer of emotional connection to the trip.

She further explained, “These additional fixtures are a vital part of our preparation as we build towards the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Finishing the tour with a three-Test series against the England Roses will provide the high-quality competition we need to continue challenging ourselves and growing as a group.”

Scotland’s head coach, Kath Tetley, echoed Taurua’s enthusiasm. “I am thrilled that the Thistles will be hosting a star-studded Silver Ferns squad in Glasgow this November,” Tetley remarked. She highlighted the series as an incredible opportunity for Scotland to prepare for their 2026 international season.

Match Locations and Schedule

The Silver Ferns will first travel to Glasgow to face the Scottish Thistles, with the matches serving as a warm-up before heading south. After the Scottish tests, the team will face England at the Copper Box Arena on November 15 and 16, before concluding the series at the AO Arena in Manchester.

With the backdrop of the state-of-the-art Playsport Arena in Glasgow, this series will mark the first international netball event at the venue. The anticipation among players and fans is palpable, as both teams gear up for a competitive series that will set the tone for their performances in the Commonwealth Games.

The Silver Ferns are poised to make a significant impact during this tour, building momentum and refining their skills in preparation for the challenges ahead. The matches will not only test their capabilities but also strengthen team dynamics as they aim for success on the international stage.