In a thrilling reversal of fortunes, England’s national netball team secured a decisive 61-49 victory against South Africa in Johannesburg on January 31, 2026, leveling the three-match test series at 1-1 before a capacity crowd.
The Roses demonstrated remarkable resilience after suffering defeat in the opening match just days earlier. Facing a seven-goal deficit during the second quarter, England mounted a spectacular recovery to narrow the gap to just one goal by halftime. The visitors emerged from the break with renewed determination, systematically establishing control of the contest and building an eight-goal advantage entering the final period.
Captain Fran Williams delivered a standout performance, earning player of the match honors through two critical interceptions during the pivotal third quarter that shifted momentum permanently in England’s favor. “We showed such composure,” Williams remarked following the victory. “I loved the way we played that last quarter. We didn’t do anything too flashy, we were happy to sit in that goal-for-goal knowing we’d done the work and it was the smarts that got us over the line.”
Head coach Jess Thirlby’s strategic adjustments proved instrumental following the initial defeat, with notable positional changes including Helen Housby at goal attack, Lois Pearson moving to wing attack, and Williams assuming wing defense responsibilities. Thirlby praised her squad’s improved ball movement and decision-making against South Africa’s formidable defense.
The series now advances to a winner-takes-all finale scheduled for Sunday at 14:00 GMT. Williams acknowledged the need for elevated performance, stating the Roses must “step it up a gear” to overcome the Proteas in the decisive match.
This contest serves as crucial preparation for both squads ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where England and South Africa will compete in the same six-team pool. The Roses enter as defending champions after their historic gold medal victory against host nation Australia in 2018.