Jada Pechova Joins England’s Senior Netball Squad for Commonwealth Games
Jada Pechova is poised to make her debut in England’s first team alongside Nat Metcalfe and Fran Williams at this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Head coach Anna Stenbridge has announced a 12-member squad, featuring 2018 Commonwealth champion Metcalfe, with Williams slated to lead the team during the tournament from July 23 to August 2.
At just 21 years old, Pechova has already made a significant impact, sweeping all three individual awards at the 2026 Netball Super League Awards, including the coveted Player of the Year. She steps confidently onto the senior stage following an impressive tenure with Nottingham Forest.
Pechova recorded a stunning 88 gains and 75 deflections, contributing significantly to Nottingham’s historic top-four finish—a first for the club. This performance underscores her readiness to compete at the highest level as she joins the national team.
Stenbridge, who has taken over the role from Jess Thirlby, expressed her pride in announcing the players who will represent England. “Each athlete understands the weight of responsibility that comes with wearing the red of England. All selected players have demonstrated their commitment and skill through their recent performances,” she remarked. Stenbridge emphasized the competitive nature of England netball, highlighting the depth and talent within the team for this prestigious event.
The squad includes six players from the 2023 World Cup silver-medal-winning team, alongside promising newcomers like Liv Chine, who is set for his second major international tournament this summer. Chine, a standout player for London Pulse, will partner with Eleanor Cardwell, returning to the Commonwealth Games after making her debut in 2022.
Making his debut for England, Royce Pearson joins the attacking lineup. After an exceptional 2024 season, where he was named Players’ Player of the Season, Pearson has established himself as a key player. Additionally, the selection of fellow newcomer Sasha Glasgow, who was born in Australia to British parents, adds further dynamism to the shooting options.
Team England’s Stronglineup for the Commonwealth Games
The final roster exemplifies a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent. In defense, the lineup consists of Harimat Adio, Francesca Williams, Funmi Fadoju, and Jada Pechova, while the midcourt features Imo Alisson, Jess Shaw, Amy Carter, and Nat Metcalfe. The attacking unit comprises Sasha Glasgow, Liv Chine, Eleanor Cardwell, and Royce Pearson.
Helen Housby’s Absence Due to Injury
Notably absent from the squad is England’s star Helen Housby, who will miss the Commonwealth Games due to a hip injury. In April, Housby was ruled out of the Suncorp Super Netball season. Tests later confirmed she would not be fit for summer competition.
Housby, who famously scored the last-second goal that clinched the gold medal for England at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, expressed her dismay at missing this year’s event. “Representing England has been an incredible honor and one of the highlights of my career,” she shared.
Despite this setback, Housby remains resolute about returning to the court, particularly with the upcoming World Cup in Sydney. “I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from everyone, including England Netball and my fans. I look forward to cheering from the sidelines as our team strives for success in Glasgow,” she concluded.
