Netball New Zealand have confirmed the Constellation Cup series between the Silver Ferns and Australian Diamonds will go ahead with all four Tests played in Christchurch, closed to the general public.
The trans-Tasman rivals will meet at Christchurch Arena on Tuesday and Wednesday as scheduled, but crowds for will not be permitted due to the re-emergence of Covid-19 in the community and change of alert levels around New Zealand.
The two tests which were to be played in Tauranga, on Saturday and Sunday will now also be played in Christchurch to minimise travel.
Netball New Zealand chief executive Jennie Wyllie said it was extremely disappointing to make these decisions in what continued to be challenging times.
“We are hugely disappointed for our netball fans who were looking forward to seeing the world champion Silver Ferns take on their biggest rivals, the world number one Diamonds,” she said.
“Our sporting landscape has changed, and we must adapt and change with it. However, the priority for us will however always be the safety and wellbeing of the athletes, fans and all of those involved …
“The change in alert levels means we must follow the Ministry of Health guidelines regarding mass gatherings, which does not allow us to play in front of a crowd.”
Wyllie said the decision to play all tests in Christchurch was based around minimising the need for teams to travel.
“Again, this is about the safety of the athletes, management and staff involved and being able to play all four tests in a controlled environment played a big part in our decisions to go ahead.”
She said both the Silver Ferns, Diamonds and event staff had already adopted many of the protocols for operating at Level 2 in the build-up to the Constellation Cup and would continue to follow the regulations this week.
“We understand the disappointment that comes with making these decisions, but we also feel fortunate that international netball can still be played and know the athletes from both teams will want to perform for the netball community.”
Wyllie said all ticket purchasers will be contacted by Ticketek and will receive a full refund.
AT GLANCE
Constellation Cup matches between New Zealand and Australia in Christchurch
Tuesday March 2 (7.15pm)
Wednesday March 3 (7.15pm)
Saturday March 6 (4.15pm)
Sunday March 7 (3.15pm)
All games live on Sky Sport, with delayed coverage on Prime.
