Wallam,who has starred for the Queensland Firebirds in their disappointing Super Netball season after a memorable international debut,is among the reserves,with the selectors opting for vice-captain Stephanie Wood and fellow goalers Kiera Austin,Cara Koenen and Garbin.
“It’s been a hard call to make any decision across this Diamonds selection. It’s probably the toughest one I’ve been involved in,” Marinkovich said.
She explained that international exposure played a significant role in selection and Garbin had “shown that she knows how to play against the international opposition that we’ve come up against”,while Wallam is less experienced at that level.
Garbin helped reclaim the Constellation Cup from the Silver Ferns in late 2022,while Wallam sank the match-winning goal against England in her Diamonds debut in a Test series last October,a series in which Garbin was also influential.
Marinkovich said another reason for Garbin’s selection was her ability to bring her shooting partner into the play while also being a target.
“We need to have double threats in the circle,but we need to also have the presence that can manipulate defenders particularly if they’re on a two-on-one as well,” she said.
Marinkovich said Wallam would still benefit from the experience of being a reserve,who can only replace a squad member if a serious injury or illness strikes.