It is by definition only that netball can be considered a non-contact sport. Anyone watching Sunday’s epic World Cup Gold Medal match will attest to this.

Netballers across the world are really starting to earn acclaim not just for their sharp shooting or smart catching, but for the way they put their body on the line, all in the name of passion for their team and the game itself.

Please enjoy our quick gallery of the most brutal moments from the Australian Diamonds vs Silver Ferns final showdown played in Sydney. Then ponder the fact that outsiders still deride the sport for being a “girls game”.