England followed up their 80-37 victory on Saturday with a second success 24 hours later, this time winning 81-30, to claim the title. However, the fixtures represented much more than simple bragging rights.

The series had been due to take place across four games, with Jamaica due to host the first two in Kingston, but those were cancelled due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in late October.

One pound from each in-person ticket, as well as streaming series pass, sold for the fixtures between England and Jamaica will be donated to the tourists chosen charity, World Central Kitchen; while attendees at London’s Copper Box Arena were able to donate to the British Red Cross’ Disaster Fund over the weekend.

“We've spoken lots in our group about respecting our opposition and the privilege that we have to be able to play Jamaica right now, with them making the trip over despite everything going on back home,” said Williams.

“With there being a small number of nations that play (elite netball) it means that the support for each other is really, really strong.”

Photography Hayley Bavin / England Netball

Legendary ‘Sunshine Girl’ player Shanice Beckford, who has won medals at each of the last three editions of the Commonwealth Games, was keen to emphasise the importance of the fundraising, but also representing her nation at this time.

“It’s a heart-breaking moment what’s going on in the western Jamaica, it’s devastating, my heart goes out to them,” she said.

“We wear pride and passion on our sleeve and we’re playing for them.

“We’re trying to put a smile on their faces because a lot of persons support the Sunshine Girls and we’re one of the teams that execute and keep the Jamaican flag going.

Beckford continued; “The fact that (other) people are able to give back and for England to give £1 for each ticket that sells to charity back home, I must commend them, we’re really appreciative of it.”

While the Jamaican team, which won silver at Birmingham 2022, was somewhat depleted for the fixtures, England captain Williams still believes her side should be “really proud” of their effects and the lessons learned ahead of the ‘Commonwealth year’.

The two commanding score lines she insists were particularly important following a 2-1 series loss to World number two side New Zealand last month.

“Going in from the New Zealand series, where we fell short, I’ve spoken to the group about practicing winning and getting the winning feeling as it’s important for Glasgow 2026 and building momentum,” said Williams.

"It's our first time winning the Horizon Series and Jamaica are ranked above us in the world rankings, so to be able to take a scalp there and also win our first ever trophy in this rivalry and competition is really exciting.”

England will next head to South Africa in the New Year, for three fixtures against the fellow Glasgow 2026 qualifiers, who they will face in the Pool stage at next year’s Commonwealth Games.

“Our practice definitely still continues going into 2026 with Glasgow in mind and South Africa are a real top nation with some world class players in their side,” continued Williams.

“I think it will be great preparation for us to travel over there, get some exposure against their team and build on the physical as well as the mental skills we have as a team.”

Tickets for Netball competition at Glasgow 2026 can be purchased via THIS LINK.

 

By Nick Hope - Glasgow 2026 Content Creator