England eliminated by New Zealand in Commonwealth Games netball semi-final, 61-54
England's bid to reclaim Commonwealth Games netball gold ended with a 61-54 semi-final defeat to New Zealand. The Roses will move into the bronze-medal fixture on Sunday morning, where their opponent will be either Australia or Jamaica.
On 1 August 2026 at the Commonwealth Games, England — the 2018 Gold Coast champions — failed to reach the final after losing to the Silver Ferns. The seven-goal scoreline does not fully reflect the contest, with New Zealand asserting control for much of the match. England thus miss the chance to defend the title they claimed in 2018.
New Zealand progressed to the final after beating England 61-54 in the semi-final. The Silver Ferns’ victory eliminated the Roses from gold-medal contention and secured their place in the championship match. The result was decisive in terms of progression, even if the scoreboard suggests a relatively close finish.
Observers noted that the contest was more one-sided than the final numbers indicate. England were unable to overturn New Zealand’s advantage at key stages, leaving them consistently on the back foot. The flow of the game favoured the Silver Ferns from the earlier phases through to the final whistle.
For the Roses, the loss ends their campaign for a repeat of the Gold Coast success of 2018. While they will still contest a medal, the primary objective of reaching the final was not achieved. The bronze match offers a consolation opportunity but does not substitute for a shot at gold.
England’s next match will be for bronze on Sunday morning against either Australia or Jamaica. That tie represents a final chance to secure a podium finish at these Games. The identity of their opponent will be decided by the outcome of the remaining semi-final.
New Zealand advance to the final after the 61-54 semi-final win and will compete for Commonwealth gold. England, meanwhile, must regroup ahead of the bronze-medal game on Sunday morning as they seek to salvage a podium result.