Queensland trio lead Diamonds past England in Glasgow
The reigning Commonwealth champions backed up their opening-round win over Tonga with another commanding performance, taking...
Cara Koenen, Liz Watson and Courtney Bruce will lead Queensland's challenge as Australia opens its Commonwealth Games netball campaign against Tonga in Glasgow.
Australia’s bid for consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medals begins tonight, with Queensland trio Cara Koenen, Liz Watson and Courtney Bruce set to play key roles as the Diamonds open their campaign against Tonga.
Captain Watson and defender Bruce will contest their third Commonwealth Games, while shooter Koenen returns for her second after helping Australia reclaim gold in Birmingham in 2022.
The experienced trio headline an Australian squad featuring seven returning gold medallists and five Commonwealth Games debutants, giving the Diamonds a blend of proven performers and emerging talent.
“There’s a lot of excitement around this group, but also a real determination to defend the gold medal we won in Birmingham,” Watson said.
Standing opposite the Diamonds will be a Tonga side making its Commonwealth Games debut after climbing to eighth in the world rankings, underlining the growing depth of international netball.
Australia has never missed a Commonwealth Games gold medal match and will be aiming to continue that record when the opening centre pass is taken at the Hydro tonight.
