England star Helen Housby is looking for Vitality Roses to speak out in this week’s “huge” series against South Africa.
The first match against South Africa’s SPAR Proteas in Johannesburg starts at 4pm on Thursday and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports YouTube.
Two more games will follow on Saturday and Sunday.
“It wasn’t a very pleasant experience in South Africa,” Housby told Sky Sports.
“They’ve got some great players, they’re very disciplined in the way they play the game, and they’re ranked just a little bit below us on the world stage, so it’s always a grudge match when we play them.
“England and South Africa have traditionally been the teams at the top of finals and gold medals, fighting for their place in world netball.
“I know first-hand how great they are on their home ground. They always draw incredible crowds. Joburg itself can be very difficult to play in because there are elevation differences that can feel in your lungs at times.”
“But I think the girls are in a really good place, and they look very sharp, so I think they’re going to give it their all.”
But she’s relishing the opportunity. “The big crowd, the arena we play in, it feels like they’re on top of you, there’s so much pressure. I love it so much. I love feeling on big occasions like that. It’s always so special, but it’s very difficult to come here and play at your best. That’s definitely something we strive for,” Housby said.
England prepares for Commonwealth Games in late 2026
The series will be crucial for England as they prepare for the Commonwealth Games later in 2026.
“This is the last competitive game we will play (before the game against Glasgow) and we will be playing against a big opponent in a hostile environment, so it couldn’t be better for us. And we will be playing a team of this level under such pressure at the Comgames,” Housby said.
“For us, it’s important how we start this year and getting a good win on the board will be huge. But more than that, I think it’s really important that we strengthen our combination and get really clear on how we want to play as a team for the start of 2026.”
“It’s a big moment for us both on and off the court.”
Watch Vitality Roses vs South Africa live on Sky Sports Youtube from 4pm on Thursday.
