Ravaillion strong as Diamonds post win in Constellation Cup opener

NSWIS netball player Kim Ravaillion has proved an asset in the midcourt for the Australian Diamonds team, who rallied to a 68-56 win over the New Zealand Silver Fearns in the opening test of the Constellation Cup test in Sydney.

The Australian score equals the highest amount of points they have put on against New Zealand in a test match, with the performance being hailed as a team effort, built on strong defence that opened up opportunities to convert in the circle.

While Caitlin Bassett scored an outstanding 47 goals, it was the work in a tight-knit midcourt comprised of Ravaillion, Madi Robinson and utility player Gretel Tippett, which helped the shooting ace to maintain 100 per cent accuracy throughout the game.

In a combined effort, the midcourt trio made a total of 62 feeds between them to keep the Diamonds on the front foot.

The Diamonds were strong from the outset to win the first two quarters 16-11, and be leading 32-22 at half time.

Their lead extended to 54-38 in the third stanza, before they fended off a late challenge from the Silver Ferns in the fourth term.

The Diamonds continue the four-test series in Launceston on Wednesday.