England’s starting line crystallises, but it’s the 12 that matters

Harriet Millard

“When you get down to a 12 you need to have some utility in the team that’s still world class.”

— Jess Thirlby, England Roses head coach

Credit: England Netball / Ben Lumley

England secured back-to-back victories against Jamaica - 80–37 in yesterday’s opener and 82–31 today - achieving the immediate aim of lifting the Rhone Hornsby Trophy. Yet while that silverware records the team name, for England this series has been about writing many, as the starting line crystallises and the outline of a world-class 12 emerges.

The Vitality Netball Horizon Series provided a platform for Jess Thirlby to test out positions and combinations while integrating less experienced talent.

Manchester Thunder’s Emma Rayner earned her first senior cap and Thirlby was impressed.

"She's so diligent and articulate, she obviously knows several of the girls from Manchester Thunder and has just got a lovely manner about her. She takes nothing for granted, but she also backs herself and gives me the confidence that now was the right time to reward her for her form over the last few months in training. And I thought she did a brilliant job and got better as the game went on."

In attack, Liv Tchine has provided a confidence on the shot, with dynamic Helen Housby drawing defenders and creating space at goal attack. Options like Lois Pearson give tactical flexibility while Eleanor Cardwell's northern grit helps England unlock other gears at times.

In the midcourt Amy Carter took increasing responsibility for tempo and linking phases, while Imogen Allison, though presently sidelined to recover an injury could offer a shift in rhythm when required.

This series has helped build a versatile base trio in defence for Thirlby: " I think it's clear for you guys to see and get excited by some of the connections between some of the players and you know the likes of Fran and Funmi offering that Wing Defence fence bib as part of a seamless transition is brilliant..." she told the BBC after the game.

Jaz Brown has seemingly taken charge of the goalkeeping duties after debuting for her country just 29 days ago against New Zealand, but Halimat Adio is growing into her international game, too.

With only three matches remaining before the 2026 Commonwealth Games, alongside a Super League season still to come, the Horizon Series has marked a key point in England’s preparation.

“I think we’ve found out a lot about combinations and players in different positions, … we’re on a great trajectory,” added Thirlby.

That trajectory is clear. The Vitality Netball Horizon Series has shown that the Roses are no longer just refining a starting seven; they are building a versatile, world-class 12, underpinned by positional utility and depth.