Netball at the Commonwealth Games brings together the world’s leading nations for nine days of fast-paced, tactical and fiercely competitive action. The Glasgow 2026 tournament will feature 12 teams competing at the OVO Hydro from 25 July to 2 August.
How does the tournament work?
The Commonwealth Games netball competition features 12 nations, split into two pools of six teams. The groups are based on World Netball rankings, creating a tournament featuring many of the strongest teams in the world.
Every nation plays each other once within their pool in the group stage, which is followed by the top two teams from each pool advancing to the knockout semi-finals, culminating in the gold medal match.
The pools:
Pool A
- Australia
- England
- South Africa
- Malawi
- Tonga
- Northern Ireland
Pool B
- New Zealand
- Jamaica
- Wales
- Uganda
- Scotland
- Trinidad & Tobago
Who are the teams to watch?
Australia
The Australian Diamonds are the world’s number one ranked team, holders of both the Commonwealth Gold and the World Cup, who use their incredible depth across the court to combine experienced international leaders with some of the game’s most exciting talent. With Liz Watson captaining a squad packed with defensive power, attacking versatility and international experience, the Diamonds remain the gold standard in international netball. After strong recent performances against Jamaica and New Zealand, Australia will be confident in their ability to challenge for another major title, but the pressure of being favourites will make their campaign one to watch.
Embed from Getty ImagesNew Zealand
New Zealand enter the tournament ranked second in the world and the Silver Ferns possess a squad capable of competing with anyone. The presence of Grace Nweke gives them one of the most dominant attacking options in world netball, while their experienced midcourt and defensive combinations provide balance across the court. After recent victories over England and strong performances heading into Glasgow, New Zealand will be determined to prove they can reclaim a Commonwealth Games medal.
South Africa
South Africa have emerged as one of the most exciting teams in international netball and could be one of the tournament’s biggest threats. Ranked fifth in the world, the SPAR Proteas have shown they can compete with the traditional top teams, highlighted by their recent victories over England, Malawi and Uganda (both in 2025). Led by Khanyisa Chawane and featuring world-class defender Karla Pretorius, South Africa combine defensive intensity with athletic attacking play. With momentum behind them, they will be aiming to challenge for a medal and continue their rise among the world’s elite.
Embed from Getty ImagesEngland
England return to the Commonwealth Games aiming to add another medal to their collection, but they do so at the start of a new chapter. Following the departure of long-serving head coach Jess Thirlby, Anna Stembridge has taken over as the squad has also undergone a period of transition, with several familiar faces from previous campaigns no longer involved, including experienced shooter Helen Housby, who is omitted due to injury. Despite these changes, England remain ranked third in the world and continue to possess a wealth of talent across the court. Captain Fran Williams leads a squad that combines established internationals with exciting emerging players, while recent series against South Africa and New Zealand have offered valuable experience against world-class opposition, even if the results did not go England’s way. As the Roses adapt to a new coaching team and a refreshed playing group, they will be determined to prove they remain among the world’s elite and are capable of challenging for another Commonwealth Games medal.
Jamacia
Jamaica remain one of the most dangerous teams in international netball, despite facing a challenging run of recent results against Australia and England. The Sunshine Girls possess some of the sport’s biggest names, including defensive powerhouse Shamera Sterling-Humprey and experienced shooter Romelda Aiken-George. Known for their physicality, athleticism and tall holding shooting ability, Jamaica have the talent to defeat any team on their day.
Embed from Getty ImagesUganda
Uganda enter the Commonwealth Games as one of the most exciting teams to watch after a rapid rise up the international rankings. Now ranked sixth in the world, the She Cranes have developed into genuine contenders, combining athleticism, speed and confidence with every performance. Their recent unbeaten run, including impressive victories over Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, highlights their growing belief on the global stage. With their fearless style of play and ability to challenge higher-ranked opponents, Uganda could be one of the tournament’s surprise packages in Glasgow.
Embed from Getty ImagesWhere can you watch Commonwealth Games netball?
The Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow from 23 July to 2 August 2026, with netball starting on 25 July at the OVO Hydro.
Embed from Getty ImagesIn the UK, live coverage will be available on TNT Sports and HBO Max, with highlights available shown on Channel 5.
For fans following internationally, coverage details will vary by territory.
The full match schedule can be found here.
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