Full Breakdown
Sarah Klau Retained in Australian Diamonds Constellation Cup Squad After Assault Sanction
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Squad Selection Despite Netball Australia Sanctions
Australia’s 14-player Constellation Cup squad was announced on a Tuesday in September, keeping defender Sarah Klau on the roster. The decision came less than a week after Netball Australia (NA) imposed a $5,000 fine and a two-match ban – suspended for 12 months – for breaching its code of conduct. The sanction followed Klau’s guilty plea to a common-assault charge stemming from an incident on June 7.
Background & Context
Klau, a 31-year-old goalkeeper for the NSW Swifts, has earned 67 caps for the Australian Diamonds since her debut in 2019. The assault incident occurred outside a Sydney-eastern-suburbs pub when she was denied entry for intoxication and allegedly kicked a security guard. The matter was dismissed by the courts on September 3, with no conviction recorded. The penalty also required Klau to complete additional education on professional conduct.
Data & Statistics
- Fine: $5,000 (imposed by Netball Australia)
- Ban: Two-game suspension, suspended for 12 months (Netball Australia)
- Assault date: June 7 (common assault)
- Court dismissal: September 3 (no conviction)
- International appearances: 67 matches for the Diamonds (since 2019)
- Squad composition: Includes Kiera Austin, Courtney Bruce, Sophie Dwyer, Sophie Garbin, Matilda Garrett, Jessie Grenvold, Georgie Horius, Sarah Klau, Cara Koenen, Kate Moloney, Amy Parmenter, Jamie-Lee Price, Donnell Wallam, and captain Liz Watson.
Official Statements & Responses
Vice-captain Kate Moloney confirmed she had not spoken directly with Klau since the sanction but had exchanged messages, noting Klau’s apology and remorse.
Team captain Liz Watson, addressing the upcoming series, said the side must begin strongly in New Zealand after the Silver Ferns’ recent Commonwealth Games gold medal.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sarah has apologised to group and is extremely remorseful for what’s happened,” — Kate Moloney
- “We haven’t had the best track record over in New Zealand so we’ll have to start really strong,” — Liz Watson, diamonds captain
Timeline
- June 7 – Klau allegedly kicks a security guard outside a pub (common assault).
- September 3 – Courts dismiss the assault matter; no conviction recorded.
- Early September – Netball Australia announces fine and suspended ban.
- Mid-September – 14-player Constellation Cup squad named, retaining Klau.
- October 18 – First Test in Auckland (scheduled).
- October 21 – Second Test in Christchurch (scheduled).
- October 25 – Third Test in Sydney (scheduled).
- October 28 – Fourth Test in Melbourne (scheduled).
What’s Next: Constellation Cup Fixtures
The Constellation Cup series will commence on October 18 in Auckland, with subsequent matches slated for October 21, October 25, and October 28 across New Zealand and Australia. The Diamonds will seek to improve their record in New Zealand while integrating Klau back into the lineup under the conditions set by Netball Australia.