Blue & Gold star Jayda Pechova set for another international milestone after Vitality Roses selection for South Africa series

Team Bath Netball’s Jayda Pechova will get to experience her first home international series after being named in the Vitality Roses squad for December’s matches against South Africa.

The 19-year-old defender earned her selection after impressing on her senior England debut during September’s tour of New Zealand (pictured). She also represented her country at the recent FAST5 World Series, helping the Roses clinch the bronze medal.

The matches against South Africa – taking place in Manchester and Nottingham on 5th, 9th and 10th December – are the Roses’ first home fixtures since winning a historic silver medal at the 2023 Netball World Cup.

Former Team Bath mid-courter Imogen Allison is among five members of the World Cup squad selected by Head Coach Jess Thirlby, while Pechova is one of five emerging talents in line to make their home debuts.

Ex-Team Bath coach Thirlby said: “The selected squad certainly looks and feels different, bringing a new energy and dynamic as we look to strengthen existing talent whilst uncovering new potential. For selection to be so tough so soon after a World Cup campaign signals the improving depth which is much needed for future success on the world stage.”

Pechova combines her netball career with studying Sports Performance at the University of Bath, where she is supported by a Trendell Sporting Scholarship.

She is all set for a second season in Team Bath’s famous Blue & Gold, with tickets now on sale for the pre-season Tri-Tournament and nine Super League matches being played at the Team Bath Arena in 2024. Click here to find out more.

Tickets for the Vitality Netball International series against South Africa are available to purchase at tickets.englandnetball.co.uk.

Photo credit: Michael Bradley / @mbphotonz