Express & Star

Beth Cobden hoping to net a gold Down Under

Staffordshire netball ace Beth Cobden has set her sights on gold after being selected to represent England at the Commonwealth Games.

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The 25-year-old, who grew up in Heath Hayes and now lives in Lichfield, was chosen in the 12-strong England squad for the Games, which take place on Australia’s Gold Coast in April.

Cobden, who plays full-time for Loughborough Lightning in the English Super League, said: “We’ve got a strong squad and I always knew it was going to be tough to get in, so I’m delighted to have been selected.

“I always considered myself one of those players who was on the edge of selection.

“I was at home on my own when I got the email confirming I had made it. I’m just so happy and looking forward to the whole experience.

“I’ve been to Australia before but being involved in a Commonwealth Games is different.

“My family are really happy for me. Mom and dad are both going to be heading over to support me.”

Cobden and the rest of the squad are preparing to jet off for a pre-Games training camp on March 11.

Australia and New Zealand, two of the games powerhouses, will start as the top contenders for gold, while Cobden also expects Jamaica to be dangerous opponents.

But with the English netball on the rise thanks to a broadcast deal with Sky Sports which has allowed several players to concentrate on the sport full-time, Cobden believes they have a chance.

“Things are definitely going from strength to strength,” she said. “There is a lot more coverage on television and the competition is getting bigger every year.

“We are really starting to compete. If we got out to the Commonwealth Games and do well it will help inspire the next generation to begin playing the sport. It’s a big opportunity for us.”