Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander has her players primed for the Kiwis. Source: Getty Images
WILL Australian Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander back her captain Nat von Bertouch to get the job done against New Zealand in the quad series clash at Allphones Arena in Sydney today?
Or will Alexander opt for Kim Green at centre in front of her home?
Green took the centre job from von Bertouch in the Constellation Cup last month but was forced to miss the win over England in the opening round of the quad series in Adelaide after aggravating a foot injury.
The NSW Swifts star returned for the contest against South Africa in Newcastle on Wednesday and was used in the second half.
Alexander hinted both players could get an opportunity at centre to combat the influence of Silver Ferns champion Laura Langman, arguably the world's leading midcourter.
"It is possible I could start with Kim," Alexander said.
"We have got people playing well in centre court, including the captain.
"There may be two opponents for Langman in the game. It is a big job and we may have to change centres in each half."
Adding to the mystery over the Diamonds midcourt combination is the fact the Silver Ferns are likely to continue with their ploy from the first two rounds and use Kayla Cullen at centre and Langman at wing attack.
Silver Ferns coach Waimarama Taumaunu is keen to use the height and skills of Cullen, a defender with Northern Mystics, at centre and has been satisfied with her form.
The Diamonds have been impressive in their two wins and Alexander has praised her players for their response to the testing three-test Constellation Cup series lost to the Silver Ferns 2-1.
Alexander admits she had some serious individual chats with her players in Adelaide last week as they prepared for the opening round.
"It has been a good time so far with the two good wins and there is a positive vibe in the group," Alexander said.
"We addressed some of the issues we had in the Constellation Cup.
"They could take it two ways but there were some good reviews in Adelaide. I spoke to all the players and had some up front honest conversations. I made it known what I wanted to see and what I did not want to see.
"It was good to get a lot of confidence from the first two games. It was also a chance to get the attacking flow right as well as the structures we have been working on. Now we have to bring it to the high pressure arena (against NZ).
"The players have to rise to the challenge and I have told them that."
The match will be followed by the battle between England and South Africa.
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