Netball

Four of netball's strongest nations - New Zealand, Australia, England and South Africa - have joined forces to establish a regular international programme.

New Silver Ferns coach Janine Southby has taken little time to stamp her mark on the side, dropping young players Malia Paseka and Phoenix Karaka.

Less whistle and the elimination of tactical time-outs in netball are among key rule changes which are being introduced from the start of next year.

The Silver Ferns midcourter Laura Langman has capped off a stellar year by being named player of the year at the inaugural New Zealand Netball Awards in Auckland last night.

Captain Casey Kopua's omission from the upcoming national trials isn't a signal of her impending retirement, says new Silver Ferns coach Janine Southby.

Southern Steel coach Janine Southby has been appointed as the new coach of the Silver Ferns.

Silver Ferns shooter Jodi Brown has announced her retirement from international netball, following the final game of the 2015 Constellation Cup.

The Silver Ferns comprehensively won the final Test in Perth 58-47, but the Australian Diamonds still retained the Constellation Cup.

For the past eight years Wai Taumaunu has been part of the Silver Ferns coaching staff, the last four as head coach - but Friday night marked her last Test in charge.

A second-half comeback kept the Constellation Cup series alive after the Silver Ferns upset world champions Australia 50-47 in game three in Melbourne.

All but assured of retaining the Constellation Cup, Australia have decided to rest captain Laura Geitz for the final two Tests against New Zealand.

The Silver Ferns have again gone down to the Australian Diamonds, with the second match of the Constellation Cup lost 48-58 in Auckland.

Silver Ferns coach Wai Taumaunu is confident her side can turn around their first test loss and win the Constellation Cup series.