England netball team return to winning ways
England's netball team bounced back from a heavy defeat by Australia to beat Malawi 73-38 at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, easing concerns after a difficult start to their title defence. The result matters because England are chasing a return to Commonwealth gold, having last won it in 2018, and have endured a turbulent build-up to the tournament with coaching upheaval and injuries disrupting the squad.
England raced into an 18-9 lead in the first quarter and never relinquished control, restricting Malawi to just five points in the final quarter while scoring 18 themselves. Substitute goal shooter Eleanor Cardwell impressed, converting all 21 of her shot attempts after coming on in the second half. The win leaves England third in Pool A behind Australia and South Africa, with matches against Tonga and then South Africa – a key semi-final rival – to come this week. The Roses' preparation has been complicated by Jess Thirlby's departure as head coach in March and injuries to key players, meaning 10 of the 12-strong squad are making their Commonwealth Games debuts.
- England thrashed Malawi 73-38 at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
- Bounced back after losing 66-47 to Australia
- Face Tonga next, then rivals South Africa for semi-final spot
New here? Start with this
The Commonwealth Games is a major international sporting event held every four years, bringing together countries from the Commonwealth. Netball, a team sport similar to basketball, is one of the sports featured.
England's netball team, known as the Roses, has historically been one of the sport's strongest nations. They won the Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2018, and these Games represent their chance to reclaim that title. However, the team has faced considerable disruption in the lead-up, with head coach Jess Thirlby departing in March and several key players sidelined by injury.
The competition features several other strong rivals, particularly Australia and South Africa, who are among the world's best netball nations. England's squad for this tournament includes many players making their Commonwealth Games debut, meaning the team is rebuilding as it seeks to restore the form that made them champions four years ago.