Commonwealth Games: Natalie Metcalf dropped from England squad

England’s Natalie Metcalf says she will “take some time to fully process” after being ruled out of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a calf injury.

The 33-year-old, who returned to action last December after giving birth to her daughter 14 months ago, raised the issue on Monday and was ruled out after a scan.

Metcalfe helped England win Commonwealth Games gold in Australia’s Gold Coast eight years ago and is the only player from the 2026 squad to feature in the 2018 triumph.

“I’m devastated not to be able to continue with the team,” said Metcalf, who replaces Ella Clarke.

“It’s been a very emotional few days and something that I think will take me some time to fully process.”

The Roses, ranked third in the world, are in Pool A with world number one-ranked Australia plus South Africa, Malawi, Tonga and Northern Ireland, against whom they open their campaign on July 25.

Metcalfe, who captained the England team that lost to New Zealand in the bronze medal match at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, helped Manchester Thunder win the Netball Super League last season.

England head coach Anna Stembridge said: “We are all devastated for Nat. The news is devastating so close to the Games, especially given the incredible journey he has made over the past 14 months.”

“It was nothing short of inspiring to see Nat back on her court after becoming a mother and we are deeply disappointed that she will not be able to compete in Glasgow.”