02 October 2025, Bendigo – The SPAR Proteas are set to face the reigning world champions, the Australian Diamonds, in a three-match series across three states in Australia. The South Africans arrived earlier this week, coming off the back of their competitive series against New Zealand.
Currently ranked fifth in the World Netball Rankings, the Proteas enter the series highly motivated and determined to build on recent performances.
Head coach Jenny van Dyk has named a 15-player squad, featuring two debutants – Entle Futshane and Juanita van Tonder. Van Dyk stressed the importance of consistently testing themselves against the world’s best:
“For the Proteas to establish themselves among the top teams, we must continuously compete with and challenge higher-ranked opponents.”
Joining her was captain Khanyisa Chawane, who recently marked her 100th Test cap. She highlighted both the responsibility and opportunity of this tour:
“We are confident heading into this series, especially after the way we performed against New Zealand. We’re taking that momentum forward. Leading this young team is a privilege, and I am proud of how far we’ve come. We are here to compete, to grow, and to prepare for the Commonwealth Games. No player should get there and feel unprepared.”
The two nations have met 46 times, with Australia victorious in every encounter. The Proteas are eager to change that record, with their last meeting taking place in Hobart in 2023.
Coach Van Dyk noted the team’s positive mindset and preparation:
“The squad has settled in well, and fortunately we have no injury concerns. Training and practice matches have helped us adjust to the officiating, and the group is confident. We now understand what works for us and must ensure four solid quarters of performance. The team is moving in the right direction, and I believe we can compete with the best.”
Fixtures:
- Saturday, 04 October – 11:30
South Africa vs Australia
Red Energy Stadium, Bendigo - Wednesday, 08 October – 10:30
South Africa vs Australia
Wollongong Entertainment Centre, Wollongong - Sunday, 12 October – 07:30
South Africa vs Australia
Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
Recent Head-to-Head Results
2016 – Australia 68-43 South Africa (Auckland)
2017 – Australia 62-46 South Africa (Durban)
2017 – Australia 58-52 South Africa (Canberra)
2018 – Australia 54-50 South Africa (London)
2018 – Australia 60-38 South Africa (Gold Coast)
2018 – Australia 61-44 South Africa (Auckland)
2019 – Australia 62-45 South Africa (Liverpool)
2019 – Australia 55-53 South Africa (Liverpool)
2022 – Australia 60-40 South Africa (London)
2022 – Australia 74-49 South Africa (Birmingham)
2023 – Australia 65-48 South Africa (Cape Town)
2023 – Australia 62-43 South Africa (Cairns)
2023 – Australia 67-52 South Africa (Hobart)
2023 – Australia 77-50 South Africa (Hobart)
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