The Silver Ferns hit the netball court for the first time since January this evening.

They face New Zealand A in the Cadbury Series at Palmerston North.

Coach Dame Noeline Taurua welcomes a contest.

"We've been running really hard over the last couple of days, so I've been heartened by what I've been able to seen. We've done enough work, and now we have to put it out on court."

She says it's an ideal contest.

"NZ A are going to give it to us, and that couldn't be better for us as we prep into England next week." 

The national under-21 and men's sides also face off.

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