Wales calls up three uncapped players ahead of test series

Harriet Millard

Wales Netball has announced the Welsh Feathers squad for their upcoming international test series against Zimbabwe, with three players set to make their senior debuts; defenders Ellie Blackwell and Millie Carter, and shooter Ffion Evans.

Credit: Planet Netball

A side looking to consolidate its position among the world’s top teams, Wales will soon host Zimbabwe in a two-test series ahead of the Celtic Cup, and head coach Emily Handyside said she is energised by the group’s enthusiasm and commitment to the task.

“What excites me about this group of players is their energy and hunger - they’re embracing the challenge of growing together, pushing our standards every session, and showing a genuine pride in representing Wales. They are true athletes ready to perform and show why we are now 6th in the world.”

Handyside praised the three uncapped players for the consistency and composure they’ve shown across multiple environments, including club level, Wales U21s, and recent national camps, saying that each offers something exciting.

“Ellie and Millie are tenacious defenders, and Ffion is a calm composed shooter who thrives under pressure. What has really stood out for me are their performances with their clubs, in the Wales U21 team, and more recently in our Feathers camps - all of them have shown their readiness to perform under pressure and step onto the competitive international stage at senior level.”

With the Commonwealth Games just 10 months away, netball's top 12 sides are in full prep mode already, and for Wales, each match provides a platform to refine their approach and maintain momentum as part of a long-term plan.

“Every game gives us a chance to refine our style of play, expose players to international intensity, and work towards retaining our position in the world rankings as we move towards Commonwealth Games in 2026. Success for us in the upcoming test series is about building depth, testing combinations, and continuing to raise our performance level while, of course, aiming to win every time we take the court.”

Squad:

Ellie Blackwell, Vicky Booth, Millie Carter, Bethan Dyke (c), Celyn Emanuel, Ffion Evans, Nansi Kuti, Zoe Matthewman, Leah Middleton, Caris Morgan, Ellen Morgan, Meg Pilkington, Georgia Rowe, Poppy Tydeman, Phillipa Yarranton.

Series details:

Test 1: Wales vs Zimbabwe, 6pm, Saturday 22 November

Test 2: Wales vs Zimbabwe, 3.30pm, Sunday 23 November

Both matches are at House of Sport in Cardiff. For tickets, click here.