Netball Test: Aussie Diamonds Outshine SPAR Proteas
Bendigo – The World Champions, Australia, continued to demonstrate their dominance by defeating the SPAR Proteas 64 – 53 in Bendigo, Australia, on Saturday.
The South African squad entered the match with significant experience, having played a minimum of 10 Test matches in 2025, while the Australian Diamonds faced their inaugural international game of the year.
In their 46 encounters, Australia remains undefeated against their rivals.
The SPAR Proteas approached the match with the ambition to achieve a victory that has eluded them: a win over the reigning world champions.
Head Coach Jenny van Dyk consistently emphasized that to be the best, one must challenge oneself against the best— and that was South Africa’s aim today.
Although the Aussie Diamonds began with an early lead by scoring first and quickly gaining a three-point edge in the initial moments of the first quarter, the SPAR Proteas were patient, meticulously executing their game plan.
It was not long before they managed to level the score.
The SPAR Proteas displayed remarkable spirit, staying engaged for every pass; they demonstrated tenacity and resilience, matching Australia’s every effort.
At the conclusion of the first quarter, both teams were equal at 14 points each.
The second quarter commenced with both teams on equal footing; however, the Aussie Diamonds ramped up their offense, creating a gap between themselves and the SPAR Proteas while restricting their scoring opportunities.
A rapid four-goal streak at the quarter’s start left South Africa rattled, granting Australia the advantage for the remainder of the match.
By halftime, Australia had a score of 34 – 26.
Van Dyk made tactical changes for the third quarter, introducing Owethu Ngubane and Sanmarie Visser to replace Khanyisa Chawane and Shadine van der Merwe.
South Africa appeared more determined to close the gap, ultimately reintroducing Van der Merwe midway through the quarter.
By the end of the third quarter, the SPAR Proteas had scored 15 goals compared to the Diamonds’ 16.
The aggregate score after 45 minutes stood at 50 – 41 in favor of Australia.
As Tarle Mathe grew fatigued, Coach van Dyk substituted in Refiloe Nketsa for enhanced midcourt support.
Australia maintained pressure on the SPAR Proteas, gradually extending their lead and ultimately claiming the opener by a score of 64 – 53.
After the match, SPAR Proteas Head Coach Jenny van Wyk remarked, “Honestly, it wasn’t a poor performance from us. Competing against the best in the world is a significant challenge, but we rose to the occasion.
“Our first quarter was commendable, although we faced difficulties in the second quarter.
“We narrowly lost the third quarter, showcasing solid performance from our team.
“We know we can be competitive; there is ample room for improvement. Our objective for the next match is not only to compete but to secure a victory.”
Quarter Score Breakdown
- Q1: SPAR Proteas 14 – 14 Aussie Diamonds
- Q2: SPAR Proteas 26 – 34 Aussie Diamonds
- Q3: SPAR Proteas 41 – 50 Aussie Diamonds
- Q4: SPAR Proteas 53 – 64 Aussie Diamonds
SPAR Proteas Starting XII
GS – Elmere van der Berg; GA – Kamogelo Maseko; WA – Khanyisa Chawane (C); C- Tarle Mathe; WD – Shadine van der Merwe; GD – Jamie van Wyk; GK – Nicola Smith
Shooting Stats:
Elmere van der Berg 37/42 (88%)
Kamogelo Maseko 11/59 (73%)
Owethu Ngubane 5/7 (71.4%)
