Former England netball boss Tracey Neville warned that Gracie Smith and Sophie Kelly are unlikely to make the Commonwealth Games squad, despite their standout seasons in the Netball Super League. Speaking on Sky Sports’ Off the Court podcast, Neville cited the short window for squad finalisation, injury risk and limited roster space as key hurdles.

Neville explained that a 18‑ to 22‑player list must be set three to four months ahead, a move that risks injuries and limits rotation. He noted that players not embedded in the full‑time program, like Kelly and Smith, struggle to secure game time amid fierce mid‑court competition. Even Smith’s “unbelievable” season cannot override the established hierarchy.

With the squad list already locked, Neville said dropping seasoned players such as Amy Carter, Imogen Allison, Beth Givhan, Jess Shaw, Nat Metcalf or Alicia Scholes for Smith would be unlikely. The move would signal a shift toward younger talent, but current selections remain firm. England’s netball squad will therefore miss two of its brightest stars as it prepares for the Commonwealth Games.