Team England's netball hopes suffer blow as 'devastated' Natalie Metcalf forced out of Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games through injury
Updated 23/07/2026 at 12:21 GMT+1
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Natalie Metcalf has had to withdraw from Team England’s netball squad for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games through injury. The 33-year-old admitted it "really hurts" to have her hopes dashed so close to the start of the Games.
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An update from Team England confirmed that Metcalf sustained an injury to her calf in the warm-up ahead of a training session on July 20.
Following further scans, it was then decided she was unable to compete on medical grounds.
In a statement, Metcalf said she was "honestly devastated" to be ruled out of the Games.
"It's been a very emotional couple of days," she wrote. "Getting an injury this close to the start line is really, really tough for anyone, but unfortunately that is the harsh reality of elite sport sometimes.
"Although this moment really hurts, I am so grateful and proud of myself, my family and all those who helped me make it back onto the court after having my little Miller. The CWGs was something I set in my sights and although I won’t be finishing the tournament with the team, I am incredibly grateful for my journey back to the game I love so deeply.
"I wish Anna and the team all the best and will be supporting from the sidelines. Time to get around the girls and watch them go shine - can't wait for you all to see the work they've put in!"
Ella Clark has travelled to Glasgow to take Metcalf's place and join up with the Team England squad ahead of their first match of the Games against Team Northern Ireland on Saturday, July 25.
Metcalf was part of the Team England netball squad that took a thrilling gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
After beating Jamaica 56-55 in the semi-finals eight years ago, Team England went on to win the gold medal match against Australia, again by a single point.
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She also won bronze and silver with Team England at the 2019 and 2023 World Cups, respectively.
Head coach Anna Stembridge said: "We are all gutted for Nat, to receive this news so close to the Games is devastating, particularly given the incredible journey she has been on over the past 14 months.
"Watching Nat navigate her return to court after becoming a mum has been nothing short of inspiring and we’re deeply disappointed that she won’t be able to compete in Glasgow.
"Nat has brought so much to the group and she will be a real loss to the team. Her experience at the Commonwealth Games, her netball smarts on court, and her leadership beyond the court will all be hugely missed."
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