Australian captain Laura Geitz has been ruled out of the two-Test netball series against England with a knee injury.
The inspirational defender suffered the injury to her left knee as the Diamonds made history by completing a Constellation Cup clean sweep of world No.2 New Zealand when they won the fourth Test 51-47 in Auckland on Wednesday night.
Her absence further opens the door for fellow defenders Rebecca Bulley and Claire McMeniman to press their claims for next year's World Cup when the Diamonds play world No.3 England, starting in Bendigo on Sunday.
Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander was taking no risks with the health of skipper Geitz, who is returning to Brisbane for further examination and to begin treatment before preparing for the trans-Tasman championship with the Queensland Firebirds.
"It's never an easy decision to make, particularly when it involves your captain, however, in consultation with our medical staff, we've opted to err on the side of caution," said Alexander.
"We've taken a conservative approach to managing her injury to ensure a full recovery ahead of next year's ANZ Championship."
Geitz had no doubt the Diamonds could extend their 17-Test winning streak against improving England, who pushed both Australia and New Zealand to the limit at the recent Commonwealth Games.
"I obviously would have loved to stay on for the remaining two Tests but I've got no doubt that the players are capable of getting the job done against England before a well deserved break," she said.
"Missing the England series means that I can be back ready for the ANZ Championship so it's nothing too serious."
Bulley and McMeniman were initially scheduled to split the four Tests against New Zealand and two against England with three each, but Bulley is now recalled to the squad in place of Geitz.
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