'Netball's mum community has been so inspiring'

A gurgle turns into a squawk, and the early throes of a weary cry - surefire signs that an afternoon nap is required.

- Ben Bloom

For much of her life, since her dramatic arrival in the predawn hours of a May morning, the seven-month-old Miller has been a regular presence at England netball camps.

Sometimes she sleeps courtside, other times watches from a balcony, or is passed between arms of players and staff members eagerly seeking a cuddle during team meetings. Whatever it takes for her mother, the England netball captain, Nat Metcalf, to get back on court.

When Metcalf pulls on her England dress against Jamaica tomorrow, returning to competition for the first time since giving birth, Miller will be there, just as she always is. “The thought of playing for England with Miller around just feels ...” starts Metcalf, before pausing, eyes filling with emotion. “Sorry, I nearly cried then.”

It means a lot. Showing that “mummy can still do it and chase her dreams” is something of which Metcalf is immensely proud. Receiving her first centre pass at London’s Copper Box Arena will be an unforgettable moment.

Metcalf, a Commonwealth champion and World Cup finalist, turned 33 on Tuesday. Having witnessed various friends’ fertility struggles, she and her husband, Josh, decided to let fate run its course with their own efforts to start a family. If and when it happened, they would navigate the delicate matter of her international sports career at that point. One thing was certain: “Retirement didn’t come into my mind.”