The Silver Ferns have suffered a major blow ahead of their opening Constellation Cup Test against Australia after wing attack Gina Crampton was ruled out with knee sprain.
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The experienced Crampton was in the starting team who pipped the Diamonds 52-51 in the World Cup final in July.
She had formed a slick combination with captain/centre Laura Langman and the shooters, leaving coach Noeline Taurua with a selection headache ahead of Sunday's first Test of four in Christchurch.
Specialist wing attack Whitney Souness has joined the squad and could be rushed straight into a starting role.
Or Taurua may consider promoting more versatile squad member Shannon Saunders to a starting bib - either at centre or wing attack, with Langman potentially shifted into the more attacking role.
Horncastle Arena is sold out for the first trans-Tasman clash since the thrilling World Cup decider in Liverpool.
Australian Associated Press
