We would not have won the 2003 WC without IVD. We would not have won the 2006 CWGs without IVD. Who did we have back then who was as strong and dominant as IVD? Jodi Brown? Tania Dalton? Ellis and Harby would have eaten them up.
With IVD we had a healthy rivalry with Aus. Without her, totally would have been one-sided like pre-IVD days.
People who say it was “luck” that won us the WC in 2019, needs to go on YouTube and re-watch both the semi and GF matches. We did not win by luck. We out played both England and Aus. We didn’t come from behind and snatch the game out of their hands, we led in both games and held on. The girls worked dam hard, and YES they were all fit.
Let’s also remember DNT success (Lightning, Magic and Steel) had all been with a strong tall holding shooter. To change her style to a moving circle was brilliant.
Tiana Metaurua to me is not running fit. As skilful as she is, and dam she played well in the final. But she was labouring in the final quarter. She would be so dangerous at full fitness, there’s no other GA in the world like her.
I 100% agree with you when comparing with the ABs! Would I have re-appointed DNT? No I wouldn’t have. I would have given the gig to YMD. IMO it’s time for a change.
But that’s not my point. DNT is in charge and she has fitness standards. Players need to meet them. And if they aren’t meeting them, that’s on them.
