Diamonds dominate late to claim Constellation Cup opener

Friday 17 October 2025 – John Cain Arena, Melbourne

The Origin Australian Diamonds have opened their 2025 Constellation Cup campaign in style, powering past the New Zealand Silver Ferns 69–52 in front of a packed John Cain Arena.

After last year’s 1–3 series loss, the Diamonds looked determined to make a statement - and by the final whistle, they’d done exactly that.

Courtney Bruce set the tone early, cleaning up a deflection from Sunday Aryang on the first visit to the Silver Ferns’ shooting circle, then pulling off a huge block on Martina Salmon soon after. The Ferns matched the intensity early though, and neither side could pull ahead. Scores were locked at 13-all after the first quarter.

Australia began to find their rhythm in the second. A few costly Ferns turnovers opened the door, and the Diamonds pounced - stretching the margin to five thanks to sharp work from Liz Watson and Kate Moloney in the middle, and the smooth shooting combination of Sophie Garbin and Kiera Austin. But just when it looked like the home side might take full control, the Ferns found a late burst to close within two at half-time.

The Diamonds steadied after the main break. Bruce and Aryang continued to disrupt the Ferns’ attack, while the introductions of Catherine Hall and Peta Toeava for the Ferns added fresh legs as coach McCausland-Durie searched for answers. The Diamonds’ defensive pressure and patience with ball in hand saw them rebuild a four-goal buffer heading into the last quarter.

From there, the world champions clicked into another gear. Their attack ran hot, the defence stayed relentless, and every rotation from the bench kept the intensity high. The Diamonds outscored the Ferns 24-11 in the final quarter to seal a dominant 17-goal win and the perfect start to their campaign.

Kate Moloney was deservedly named Player of the Match for her all-court effort, setting the tone with her leadership and composure. Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich said she was proud of the way her team responded to the Ferns’ early challenges, noting how their growing connection and confidence shone through in the second half.

The series now heads to Sydney for Test 2, where the Diamonds will look to keep their momentum rolling and edge closer to reclaiming the Constellation Cup.

Final Score: Australian Diamonds 69 - 52 New Zealand Silver Ferns

Player of the Match: Kate Moloney (Australia)