Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Helen Housby joined NSW Swifts in 2017
ByLorraine McKennaBBC Sport Journalist- Published1 hour ago
England international Helen Housby has been ruled out of this summer's Commonwealth Games because of a back injury.
In April, England Netball and New South Wales Swifts, who Housby plays for in Australia, said the 31-year-old would miss an extended period of the Suncorp Super Netball season with the injury.
But following further scans, it has now been confirmed she will also be unable to take part in the Games in Glasgow, which start on 23 July.
Housby posted on Instagram, external that she was "devastated to be ruled out in this manner".
She scored England's last-minute winner when they defeated favourites Australia to wib their first Commonwealth Games gold medal on the Gold Coast eight years ago.
Housby added: "Representing Team England is an honour and holds some of my proudest and fondest memories.
"Despite the setback I'm more determined than ever to come back stronger and get back on court as soon as possible, especially with the World Cup in Sydney on the horizon."
England, ranked third in the world, are in Pool A with world number ones Australia, plus South Africa, Malawi, Tonga and Northern Ireland, against whom they begin their Commonwealth Games campaign on 25 July.
Housby added: "I truly believe our squad can beat anybody and I'm looking forward to watching as a fan this time around."
A huge blow for England - analysis
Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, England beat Australia 52-51 in the 2018 Commonwealth Games final
ByJess AndersonBBC Sport journalistHousby is one of only two active players, the other being wing attack Nat Metcalf, who were part of that 2018 Commonwealth gold medal-winning team – and what a part it was she played.
The image of Housby celebrating scoring the last-gasp winning goal against serial winners Australia – tongue blue from energy drinks – to secure England's first-ever major title remains an iconic one.
Her absence from this year's tournament in Glasgow is a huge blow for a Roses team already somewhat lacking in major tournament experience.
Not only would Housby have been a first-choice in England's shooting circle but her leadership, determination and winning experience has often been crucial to driving the team.
At 31, Housby's Commonwealth Games career could now be at an end. Replacing one of England's most beloved players will be no easy task. Coming up with a plan B for this summer presents Anna Stembridge with her first real test as the Roses' new head coach.
