Thwaites and Wood duel for Diamonds start

Caitlin Thwaites has endorsed Australia fielding one of their shortest-ever goal shoots for the rest of the Quad Series, even if it costs her court time.

The makeup of the Diamonds attacking circle holds most intrigue heading into crunch Tests in London against New Zealand on Sunday morning (AEDT) and England a day later.

Gretel Tippett was a standout performer in the opening 62-45 win over South Africa, playing at goal attack.

The replacement for injured skipper and goal shoot Caitlin Bassett remains a source of conjecture, with the experienced Thwaites having performed solidly in the first half before making way for Steph Wood.

Normally a goal attack, the 1.75m Wood shone in her new role, employing speed and guile to cut open the Proteas defence.

Coach Lisa Alexander said the switch worked well and won't dismiss suggestions Wood will be employed there again, at the expense of the 45-Test shooter Thwaites, who stands 1.88m.

Twaites, 32, has become accustomed to a support role since her 2012 debut given the presence of the world class Bassett.

A team-first mentality applies for her this week too, she said, with Wood the sort of player that opponents may find hard to shut down because of her unique qualities.

"It's just really exciting that we're not a one-dimensional team," Thwaites told AAP.

"To throw in another dimension with Steph at goal shoot adds to problems for defenders. They will have to keep guessing and keep adapting to what we put out there."

The Bendigo-born shooter has learned to deal with the irritation felt earliier in her career when Bassett's presence reduced her mainly to bench appearances in the green and gold.

Thwaites sees value in what she can bring at training and occasions like this week, when her off-court leadership is invaluable as the most experienced fit member of the squad.

"There's definitely been times when I've felt (frustrated) but I guess over the last couple of years I've realised that I'm still in the team for a reason.

"I've managed to get my head around it and find ways to add value whether I'm on court or not."

Thwaites said whatever combination Australia field, their main focus has been preparing to combat the Silver Ferns' trademark zone-style defence.

The New Zealanders have problems of their own, with Noeline Taurua's new-look side having succumbed 54-41 to England in their opener.