England to host South Africa in February netball series
England and South Africa will play three netball Tests in February 2027 as they prepare for the World Cup in Australia. London’s Wembley Arena hosts the first two games on 6 and 7 February, followed by Leicester on 10 February. Both federations described the series as an opportunity to assess their preparations.
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Three Tests across London and Leicester
England’s women’s netball team will host South Africa for a three-match international series in February 2027. Announced on 2 November, the fixtures take the teams to two English cities: London and Leicester. The series forms part of preparations for the World Cup in Australia in late August and early September.[1], [2]
London’s Wembley Arena hosts the opening match on Saturday 6 February and the second on Sunday 7 February. The concluding game will be played at Leicester’s Mattioli Arena on Wednesday 10 February. Sky Sports will broadcast all three games live.[1]
Federations seek a measure of World Cup readiness
England Netball chief executive Fran Connolly described the South Africa series as an important part of World Cup preparation. She pointed to opportunities to face strong national teams both at home and away, and looked forward to welcoming South Africa with the support of the home crowd.[1]
South Africa looks to assess its progress
Netball South Africa president Mami Diale said playing England would help gauge her team’s readiness for the World Cup. Such matches, she said, offer a chance to identify what the team does well and what it needs to improve. England’s preparations also include home and away fixtures against Jamaica during the autumn, before the South Africa series. England is coached by Anna Stembridge, who received the permanent appointment after initially taking interim charge following Jess Thirlby’s departure.[1]
