Fast passes, dazzling footwork and arguably unrivalled team spirit — it’s little wonder that Netball remains one of the most popular sports of the Commonwealth Games. 

Communication, precision, and speed are at the heart of the games. It’s fierce, it's fast and it’s full of action. With players only allowed possession of the ball for three seconds, speed, agility and drama are guaranteed. 

Glasgow 2026 spectators can expect to see clashes between the world’s very best, where every interception, every turnover, and every shot counts. 

Here’s how it works: 

Matches are made up of four 15-minute quarters, with the team scoring the most goals taking the win. 

Each team has seven players in fixed positions with prescribed areas on court. 

When a player is in possession of the ball, they can’t move – meaning the squad must operate as one, in total sync, to create scoring opportunities.  

Players must pass or shoot the ball within just three seconds, so speed, agility and sharp focus are vital.  

Only the goal attack and goal shooter can score goals. 

Did you know? 

• The first international game of netball took place in 1938, between Australia and New Zealand — but at the time, each country had its own rules. Australia played seven-a-side, New Zealand played nine-a-side. For the match, they agreed to go with seven-a-side, and Australia took the win.  
• Netball was played as a demonstration sport at the Auckland 1990, before making its official debut at Kuala Lumpur 1998. It has featured at each Commonwealth Games since.
• New Zealand and Australia had won every gold medal between then until England took gold following a dramatic late goal at Gold Coast 2018.  
• At Glasgow 2014, Scotland fielded a netball team for the first time ever, having climbed steadily up the rankings over the previous four years.