Vixens Top Super Netball, Injuries Impact Teams

0:00It's April 20th. This is Sydney News today, driven by AI. Melbourne Vixen's just snatched the top spot in Super Netball after six rounds, knocking off the undefeated Adelaide Thunderbirds 56-50 in. A nail-biter on Saturday night. Both teams were tied on points, but the Vixen's edged ahead with a late defensive surge. Queensland Firebirds stays to comeback win over NSW Swift's 77-66 despite injuries, while Sunshine Coast Lightning grabbed. Fourth place with a 59-51 victory against the Giants. West Coast fever stage strong, beating Melbourne Mavericks 59-47 after the Mavericks worst first quarter ever, just seven goals. In 15 minutes. That loss dropped the Mavericks down the ladder, highlighting how tight the competition is early in the season. Off the court, Netball Australia locked in a five-year broadcast deal, shifting from Fox Sports to 9, starting in 2028. At least two matches per week hit free-to-air TV, with all four games free on 9 now in 2027.

1:05From 2028, the other two could go behind Stan's paywall at $32 a month. Fans are mixed on the deal since its value isn't public, and might be less than the old $7 million a year from Fox. Average viewership was 57,000 last season, so the goal is wider reach, including diamonds tests and next year's World Cup. Their pay looks steady, but expansion plans for new teams are on hold. Injuries are ravaging teams, with 16 players sidelined, mostly defenders and imports, forcing coaches to dig deep into pathways. Packed international tests and a short preseason might be to blame, hitting selection for the Commonwealth Game Squad due May 31st. The sports got to tackle player welfare soon to keep thriving.