Proteas sharpen steel in year of high-pressure netball

SOUTH African netball spent 2025 in the pressure cooker — and by design.

- ROWAN CALLAGHAN

With the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow fast approaching, Netball South Africa (NSA) mapped out one of the toughest international calendars in Proteas history.

The result was a season in which the Proteas were tested by world-class opposition, endured hard-earned growth and showed promising signs from the national pathway.

Proteas embark on brutal but necessary Test schedule

This year, the Spar Proteas faced the strongest teams in the sport: Jamaica, England, New Zealand and Australia - all ranked above South Africa and key benchmarks for a squad in transition.

The year began with a demanding away series against Jamaica, whose physicality and aerial strength continue to set the global standard. While the Sunshine Girls’ towering shooting circle tested South Africa's defensive resolve, the Proteas showed a fighting spirit that became a hallmark of their play.

Next came the Nations Cup in England. Facing England and African rivals Uganda and Malawi in quick succession exposed the gains and gaps of the squad. An impressive pool-stage win against England’s Roses was a standout result, even if the hosts avenged the loss in a pulsating final. The two nations will renew that rivalry in a three-Test home series next month.