England Netball | Natalie Metcalf announces she is expecting her first baby

The news means that she will not be available for selection for the remainder of the 2024-25 international season, nor take to court for Manchester Thunder as the Netball Super League relaunches in 2025.

Natalie, who co-captained the Vitality Roses to a historic silver medal at the Netball World Cup in 2023 and is a three-time NSL champion, continues to be actively involved with both club and country training camps.

She is also receiving ongoing support from both England Netball and Manchester Thunder medical staff and Performance teams as she prepares for an exciting new chapter in her life.

Sharing her special news, Natalie said: “Josh and I can’t wait to welcome baby Metcalf into the world.

“I’m really grateful for the support I have received from club and country and hope to step back on court as a mum sometime in the future.

“In the meantime, I look forward to staying involved within the game and supporting my teammates from the sidelines!”

Celebrating Natalie’s news, Vitality Roses Head Coach Jess Thirlby said: “On behalf of myself and the Vitality Roses, we want to congratulate Nat and Josh on their beautiful news!

“We couldn’t be happier for Nat and her family and wish them all well on their journey to parenthood.

“Nat is and continues to be an important part of our team and as one of our valued leaders has been helping to support the team in their preparation for the upcoming series.

“Having had the pleasure of working with Nat over a long period of time, I know not only how respected she is as a player but also as a person who has the kindest soul. She will make an incredible mum.”

Everyone at England Netball and Manchester Thunder would like to wish Natalie and Josh a huge congratulations on their special news!