Roses Seek Bounceback As Jamaica Arrive Depleted

England host Jamaica in London this weekend for the second of three international series ahead of next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The Vitality Roses arrive looking to rebuild confidence after a 2-1 series defeat to New Zealand.

World No. 3 Jamaica will be without several of their senior stars. Head coach Sasher Gaye Henry-Wright said the squad feels "no pressure" and is concentrating on performance targets, while acknowledging that funding and pathway shortfalls have limited the team’s depth. Despite the absences she expressed optimism about the group selected.

Notable absences from the Sunshine Girls include captain Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, Romelda Aiken-George, Shimona Nelson and Latanya Wilson. Kadie-Ann Dehaney was not named after returning to pre-season with West Coast Fever in the Suncorp Super Netball league. Jodie-Ann Ward is out after rupturing an ACL in May, and Shamera Sterling, who gave birth in October, is also absent.

Experienced internationals in the travelling squad include Shanice Beckford and Khadija Williams, both members of Jamaica’s 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth bronze teams and the 2022 silver medal side. Former captain Vangelee Williams has returned from international retirement at 33, and Rhea Dixon, a former Vitality Rose, switched allegiance to Jamaica in 2023.

Paula Ann Burton

Francesca Williams

The first two matches of the Horizon Series originally scheduled in Jamaica were cancelled because of Hurricane Melissa, so the series now comprises two fixtures in London at the Copper Box Arena:

• Saturday 13 December: England vs Jamaica, 14:00
• Sunday 14 December: England vs Jamaica, 14:15

Kick-off times are subject to slight change for broadcast requirements.