Fast Net to catch new support base
Sydney Morning Herald
Friday October 9, 2009
NETBALL'S new format, a cut-down version of the game called Fast Net designed to capitalise on cricket's Twenty20 success, will kick off in Manchester tonight.With a name that hardly reflects the vibrancy of the new game, the "World Netball Series" will be a gruelling concept, says Australian coach Norma Plummer.The world's top six netball nations €“ Australia, England, New Zealand, Jamaica, Samoa and Malawi €“ will compete in the new competition. The rules have been amended to make the game even faster, similar to a Twenty20 cricket-style entertainment package for its spectators.Plummer said: €śWe won't have any downtime, it will be two games one day, three the next and then into the finals. There are six-minute quarters; performers will have to go straight on. It is definitely going to be a gruelling tour.€ťUnder the radical Fast Net rules the goal attack and goal shooter can shoot from outside the goal circle, as long as they remain in their designated playing area. Shots scored inside the circle will earn one goal and from outside the circle will earn two goals. Unlimited substitutions will be allowed while play is in progress."I will definitely be interested in how the new concept goes," said Plummer, who was preparing to change her team's approach to the new game during the tournament.Plummer has selected a 14-player squad. Captain Sharelle McMahon will not play the World Netball Series but will be available for the Test matches, while Julie Corletto is out because of knee surgery. But Plummer will be able to call on the experience of returning defenders Mo'onia Gerrard and Bianca Chatfield.
© 2009 Sydney Morning Herald
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