Where Is England Ranked in Netball?

5 min.

Netball is a thrilling and globally beloved sport, and the question of team rankings is always a hot topic among fans. One nation that consistently draws attention is England, whose Vitality Roses have emerged as a dominant force in international netball. But where does England rank in netball today? As of 2023, England is ranked 3rd in the world, maintaining a strong position among the sport’s elite.

In this article, we’ll explore England’s journey in the international rankings, the factors contributing to their success, and what lies ahead for the Vitality Roses.

How Are Netball Rankings Determined?

Before diving into England’s current rank, it’s essential to understand how World Netball determines these rankings.

Key Factors in Netball Rankings:

Match Results: Wins, losses, and draws in international matches significantly impact rankings.
Match Weighting: More recent games carry greater weight than older matches.
Strength of Opponent: Beating a higher-ranked team earns more points than defeating a lower-ranked one.
Frequency of Matches: Teams need to play at least eight games over a rolling four-year period to remain eligible for rankings.

England’s consistent performances in major tournaments like the Netball World Cup and Commonwealth Games have helped them secure and maintain their position near the top.

England’s Current Ranking: A Snapshot

As of 2023, England is ranked 3rd in the world, behind Australia (1st) and New Zealand (2nd). This position reflects their growing prominence on the international stage and their ability to compete against the sport’s powerhouses.

Recent Rankings Overview:

2020: Ranked 3rd
2021: Ranked 3rd
2022: Ranked 3rd
2023: Maintained 3rd position

The consistent ranking highlights England’s stability as a top-tier team.

Key Achievements That Contribute to England’s Ranking

1. 2018 Commonwealth Games Gold Medal

One of the most defining moments in England’s netball history was their victory at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. The Roses defeated the formidable Australian Diamonds 52–51 in a nail-biting final. This win not only earned them their first Commonwealth gold but also catapulted them into global recognition.

2. Strong World Cup Performances

2019 Netball World Cup: England secured a bronze medal after defeating South Africa in the third-place playoff.
2023 Netball World Cup: England made it to the final but fell short against Australia, taking home the silver medal. This performance solidified their place as one of the top teams globally.

3. Quad Series Success

England’s participation in the Netball Quad Series against Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa has been pivotal in maintaining their high ranking. Victories and competitive performances against these strong teams have added valuable ranking points.

Factors Behind England’s Rise in Netball

1. Elite Talent Development

England Netball has invested heavily in grassroots programs and talent identification, producing world-class players like:

Helen Housby: Known for her clutch shooting, including the iconic goal that won the 2018 Commonwealth Games final.
Jo Harten: A versatile shooter with experience in Australia’s Suncorp Super Netball League.
Jade Clarke: England’s most-capped player, celebrated for her leadership and defensive prowess.

2. Domestic League Growth

The Netball Superleague (NSL) in England has grown significantly in terms of competitiveness and visibility. Teams like the Manchester Thunder and Surrey Storm have become breeding grounds for future Roses stars.

3. International Experience

Many English players compete in the Suncorp Super Netball League in Australia, widely regarded as the best domestic netball competition in the world. This exposure to high-pressure matches against top-tier players enhances their skills and confidence.

4. Improved Coaching and Strategy

Under the guidance of experienced coaches like Jess Thirlby and former head coach Tracey Neville, the Roses have developed a dynamic and adaptable playing style that allows them to compete with the world’s best.

The Competition: How England Compares to Australia and New Zealand

Australia (Ranked 1st)

The Australian Diamonds are the undisputed leaders in world netball, with 12 Netball World Cup titles and multiple Commonwealth Games gold medals. Their consistency, depth of talent, and strategic acumen make them a formidable opponent.

New Zealand (Ranked 2nd)

The Silver Ferns are known for their innovative gameplay and defensive brilliance. Their recent World Cup win in 2019 and consistent performances against top teams keep them ahead of England.

England (Ranked 3rd)

While England has yet to achieve the sustained dominance of Australia or New Zealand, their recent successes indicate they are closing the gap. The Roses’ ability to win crucial games, combined with their talent pool, makes them a credible challenger.

Challenges England Faces to Climb Higher

While England’s position as the world’s 3rd-ranked team is impressive, overtaking Australia or New Zealand will require overcoming several challenges:

Consistency Against Top Teams: While England has defeated both Australia and New Zealand in major tournaments, they need to consistently win to climb higher in the rankings.
Depth of Talent: Building a deeper bench to match the squad depth of Australia and New Zealand is crucial.
Pressure in High-Stakes Matches: England’s narrow losses in finals highlight the importance of mental toughness in crucial moments.

The Future of England in Netball

England’s future in netball looks promising, with an influx of young talent and a strong development pipeline. The 2026 Commonwealth Games and 2027 Netball World Cup will be critical opportunities for the Roses to further cement their legacy and potentially climb higher in the rankings.

Emerging Stars to Watch:

Eleanor Cardwell: A sharp shooter with incredible accuracy.
Layla Guscoth: A defensive powerhouse known for her ability to disrupt opposition attacks.

Strategic Focus:

Investing in Youth Development: Programs to nurture young players will ensure a steady supply of talent.
International Exposure: Continuing to encourage players to compete in top leagues like the Suncorp Super Netball will elevate the team’s skill level.

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