Wales miss out on Netball World Cup qualification

Welsh Feathers missed out on qualification for the 2027 Netball World Cup in a a 48-55 defeat by Scotland.

After Northern Ireland beat the Republic of Ireland in Sunday's earlier game, Wales had to beat Scotland to qualify, but fell seven points short in East Kilbride.

Wales' defeat means they finished third in qualification, behind Scotland and Northern Ireland, who will be heading to next year's World Cup in Sydney, Australia.

With their meeting against Scotland a must-win - having lost their opener to Northern Ireland - Wales made a good start, taking an early lead.

But they were dealt a significant blow when goal shooter Georgia Rowe, a veteran of the 2015 and 2023 World Cups, suffered an injury six minutes in.

And while her replacement, Nansi Kuti, scored well, Scotland, who won all three of their qualifiers, proved more clinical and led 30-27 by half-time.

Wales fought back to draw level during the third quarter and headed into the final period just one point behind hosts Scotland.

But the hosts proved too strong, outscoring Wales 15 points to nine in the final 15 minutes to eliminate the Feathers' hopes of qualification.

Interim Welsh Feathers head coach Reinga Bloxham had targeted a perfect three wins from three during Netball World Cup qualifying.

Failure to reach the World Cup follows a disappointing Commonwealth Games campaign, when Wales finished 10th in Glasgow.

Interim Welsh Feathers head coach Bloxham 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."

Welsh Feathers captain Bethan Partridge 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."

Friday, September 25

Wales 49-50 Northern Ireland

Scotland 84-29 Republic of Ireland

Saturday, September 26

Republic of Ireland 33-76 Wales

Scotland 67-43 Northern Ireland

Sunday, September 27

Northern Ireland 73-50 Republic of Ireland 12:00

Scotland 55-48 Wales