Welsh Feathers miss out on Netball World Cup 2027 qualification

Cardiff, Wales – Sunday 27 September 2026

The Welsh Feathers will not compete at the Netball World Cup Sydney 2027 after missing out on qualification at the Europe qualifier in Glasgow, following a 48-55 defeat to Scotland in today’s final match.

The Welsh Feathers opened the qualifier on Friday with a narrow 50-49 defeat to Northern Ireland, before responding with a 76-33 victory over the Republic of Ireland on Saturday. In today’s final fixture, Wales battled closely with Scotland throughout but were ultimately beaten 55–48.

Wales Netball congratulates Scotland and Northern Ireland, who will represent Europe alongside England in Sydney next year. Both teams provided strong opposition this weekend and their success is a proud moment for Celtic netball.

Reinga Bloxham, Interim Head Coach, Welsh Feathers, said: “We came here to qualify and we haven’t done that. It is hugely disappointing for everyone that we’ve not met the standards and ambitions we set ourselves. I’m proud of the commitment the players have shown and the way they have carried themselves this weekend. We will now take the time to reflect honestly on our recent performances and what we learn will help shape what comes next for the Welsh Feathers.”

Bethan Partridge, Captain, Welsh Feathers, said: “We are absolutely devastated. We wanted to show what we’re capable of, but we didn’t get the results we needed this weekend, and we take responsibility for that as a group. To everyone who has supported us this weekend, in Glasgow and at home, thank you. It means so much to us. Wales will come back stronger.”

Wales Netball will now carry out a full review of this summer’s international campaigns. Work is already under way through the Ymladd 2030 strategy to strengthen the performance pathway and national programme and further details will be announced shortly. The organisation remains confident in the talent within Welsh netball and committed to building a national programme that competes consistently on the world stage.

With this year’s international season now ended, Wales Netball would like to take this opportunity to thank all the players, coaching team, staff, volunteers, members, partners and supporters for their commitment and support.

Results:

Wales vs Northern Ireland      49 – 50

ROI vs Wales                         33 – 76

Scotland vs Wales                  55 – 48