Why Helen Housby Missing the Commonwealth Games Could Be a Positive for England Netball

England Netball has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games after star shooter Helen Housby withdrew from the tournament due to an ongoing lower back stress fracture.

As one of the world’s premier shooters, Housby’s absence is undoubtedly a major loss. Renowned for delivering in the biggest moments—including her iconic match-winning goal in the 2018 Commonwealth Games final—she has long been a cornerstone of the Roses’ success.

While losing a player of Housby’s calibre is disappointing, England’s recent history suggests that adversity can often create opportunity.

Turning Setbacks Into Success

This is not the first time England has entered a major tournament after losing one of its key players.

Ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, experienced wing defence Beth Cobden was forced to withdraw through injury. A central figure in England’s rise—including the Fast5 Netball World Series title in 2017 and the historic Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2018—Cobden’s absence appeared to be a devastating setback.

Instead, it opened the door for another player to shine.

Imogen Allison’s Breakthrough

At the time, Imogen Allison was regarded as an exciting prospect rather than an established international starter.

Initially selected as a travelling reserve, Allison was promoted into England’s final 12-player squad after Cobden’s withdrawal due to a calf injury.

She seized the opportunity.

Throughout the tournament, Allison produced a series of outstanding performances that quickly established her as one of England’s most influential players. Her displays not only strengthened her place within the Roses but also helped earn a move to Australia’s Suncorp Super Netball, widely regarded as the strongest domestic competition in the world.

What initially appeared to be a setback ultimately accelerated the emergence of one of England’s brightest stars.

Her story serves as a reminder that unexpected opportunities can transform careers.

Another Chance for a New Star

England enters this year’s Commonwealth Games with one of its strongest talent pools in recent memory.

The Roses’ player pathway continues to produce high-quality athletes, while increasing numbers of players are gaining valuable experience in both the Netball Super League and overseas competitions.

Rather than focusing solely on the absence of Housby, attention may soon shift to the player ready to embrace the opportunity left behind.

England Netball has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to develop athletes capable of thriving on the international stage, and history suggests another breakthrough performer could be waiting in the wings.

Every Tournament Creates New Heroes

Major sporting events have a habit of producing unforgettable moments and introducing new stars to the world.

Recent examples include:

• 2008 Beijing Olympics — Rebecca Adlington
• 2012 London Olympics — Jessica Ennis-Hill
• 2016 Rio Olympics — Simone Biles
• 2018 Commonwealth Games — Helen Housby
• 2021 Tokyo Olympics — Keely Hodgkinson
• 2021 US Open — Emma Raducanu
• 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro — Chloe Kelly
• 2024 Women’s Six Nations — Ellie Kildunne
• 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro — Hannah Hampton

Each tournament has delivered a breakthrough performance that captured the imagination of fans.

The question now is:

Who will become the next hero of England’s Commonwealth Games campaign?

While Helen Housby’s absence leaves a significant void, it also presents an opportunity for another Rose to step forward, embrace the spotlight, and write the next memorable chapter in England Netball history.