Harriet Millard

Taking a flight on average every 8.4 days and playing a test every 4.9, the Silver Ferns wrapped up their Northern Tour - and their 2025 - in the best possible way, sealing a 2–1 series win over England with a composed 49-55 victory on Wednesday evening in Manchester. 

Credit: SWpix

Since opening their Taini Jamison Trophy campaign against South Africa on 21 September, the squad has endured long journeys across multiple time zones, and faced strong international opposition. In just 59 days, they have taken around seven international flights and played 12 tests against four nations - South Africa, Australia, Scotland and England. 

Even after three tight contests against the Roses, each decided by six goals or fewer, the world No. 2 side showed the grit built over this demanding stretch, producing clarity in key moments to close out the decider and lift the Vitality Netball International Series trophy.

The Manchester test felt more controlled for New Zealand compared with the intensity of the London double-header. Sticking with the same starting seven throughout, the Ferns lifted in the second quarter, scoring four unanswered goals to steady themselves after a slower opening.

Patient ball movement and precise feeding to Grace Nweke pushed them ahead 27–25 at halftime. England rotated their shooters, including shifting Helen Housby to goal shooter, and briefly led by three in a physical third spell. But the Ferns hit back, with crucial turnovers from Kelly Jackson and Kate Heffernan helping them take the quarter 15–13.

Holding a four-goal lead, New Zealand controlled the final quarter, with Jackson’s defence, a steady midcourt, and Nweke’s finishing keeping the Roses at bay.

After a relentless tour, the Silver Ferns head into their summer break having delivered a confident final statement - ending their Northern campaign on a high.