The inaugural Netball World Cup hosted in Africa was a resounding success, with Cape Town’s electrifying crowd and the impressive CTICC venue setting the stage for a smoothly-run tournament. Now, let’s explore the highlights of this competition.
THE FINAL PLACINGS
FINAL: AUSTRALIA VS ENGLAND
In the highly anticipated rematch, Australia emerged victorious over England with a commanding score of 61-45. The Diamonds’ resounding victory not only secured their 12th title but also extended their record as the most successful team in Netball World Cup history. Despite the Roses’ excellent tournament performance, they faced a formidable defeat in the final, ultimately claiming the silver medal. Notably, Paige Hadley secured her second gold medal, standing as the sole survivor from the victorious 2015 team.
AUSTRALIA ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS 🥇
The Diamonds win the Netball World Cup 2023 with a 61-45 victory over England 🇦🇺#NWC2023 | @AussieDiamonds pic.twitter.com/0Wqfjyewu8
— World Netball (@WorldNetball_) August 6, 2023
ALSO READ: Netball World Cup: Defenders Dominating the Court
BRONZE FOR JAMAICA, NEW ZEALAND LEAVES EMPTY-HANDED
In an intense battle for the medals, Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls, guided by Coach Connie Francis, celebrated a historic achievement, securing the bronze medal with a final score of 52-45. This significant win solidified their position among the tournament’s top contenders. Conversely, New Zealand’s Silver Ferns, under the leadership of Coach Dame Noeline Taurua, experienced an unexpected outcome, departing the competition without a medal for the first time in the history of the Netball World Cup.
Jamaica are the bronze medallists 🥉
The Sunshine Girls take their place on the podium 🇯🇲#NWC2023 | @NetballJamaica pic.twitter.com/q7jQ2QdO48
— World Netball (@WorldNetball_) August 6, 2023
UGANDA ACHIEVEMENT AND SOUTH AFRICA STRUGGLES
Uganda achieved a historic milestone, securing their highest-ever tournament finish at fifth place with a 49-47 victory. Their impressive journey underscored their dedication and resilience on the global netball stage. Meanwhile, South Africa faced disappointment, sharing their worst-ever sixth-place finish with their 2007 result, prompting reflection and the pursuit of improvement for the talented team.
The She Cranes get it done 🙌
It all came down to the final moment but an incredible 49-47 victory for @shecranes256 over hosts @Netball_SA sees them become the top seeded team in Africa 🇺🇬#NWC2023 | #PutYourHandsUp pic.twitter.com/KWaz8suusv
— World Netball (@WorldNetball_) August 6, 2023
ALSO READ: Netball World Cup: Amazing Attackers of the Tournament
NETBALL WORLD CUP BEST PLAYERS
The Netball World Cup 2023 showcased exceptional individual talents, and the following players stood out as the best in their respective categories:
ATTACKER OF THE TOURNAMENT
Helen Housby demonstrated remarkable shooting precision and skill, outshining fellow shooters Fowler, Garbin, and Koenen to claim the prestigious Shooter of the Tournament award.
Best in show.
Congratulations to England Rose and NSW Swift Helen Housby on being named the 2023 Netball World Cup Player of the Tournament 🤩
Fair to say she’s had a decent 2023. pic.twitter.com/T60ouIylYK
— Suncorp Super Netball (@SuperNetball) August 7, 2023
MIDCOURT PLAYER OF THE TOURNAMENT
Kate Heffernan, who had previously earned the Midcourt Player of the Quad Series award, continued her exceptional performance and was rightfully named the Midcourt Player of the Tournament.
Congratulations to Grace Nweke, who was awarded overall Player and Shooter of the Quad Series and to Kate Heffernan who picked up Midcourter of the tournament award 🏆✨
📸: @mbphotonz #NetballQuadSeries pic.twitter.com/csF9XtdlPx
— Silver Ferns (@SilverFernsNZ) January 25, 2023
DEFENDER OF THE TOURNAMENT
Courtney Bruce’s commanding presence and tenacious style of play made her an absolute menace to opposing teams throughout the tournament. With her incredible timing, lightning-fast reflexes, and disruptive skills, Bruce solidified her position as the Defender of the Tournament, a recognition she also received during the quad series.
🏐🇦🇺 “It definitely feels like business is finished.” 💚💛
💎 @AussieDiamonds‘ Courtney Bruce speaks to @_BrittanyCarter after winning #NWC2023 in Cape Town. 🥇🏆
Read more: https://t.co/7ngBqSZmuX pic.twitter.com/U7SlFSOFN4
— ABC SPORT (@abcsport) August 7, 2023
ALSO READ: A proud and historic day for women’s sport in South Africa
PLAYER OF THE TOURNAMENT
Helen Housby, who secured the Attacking Player of the Tournament award, also earned the coveted Player of the Tournament title. Her exceptional performance, making the impossible seem effortless, rightfully earned her this prestigious recognition. She also won the Player of the Year award, further highlighting her exceptional contributions. It’s safe to say that these accolades were well-deserved. This award was previously won by South Africa’s Karla Pretorius in the 2019 edition of the Netball World Cup in Liverpool.
Big Game Player 💪@Helenhousby1 is named Player of the Tournament 👏#NWC2023 | @EnglandNetball pic.twitter.com/TCOM3FXEJW
— World Netball (@WorldNetball_) August 6, 2023
The Netball World Cup 2023 in Cape Town showcased exceptional athletes, celebrated skill and passion, leaving a lasting impression of excellence. The tournament exceeded expectations, introducing breakout stars like Taljaard, Fadoju, and Rowe, while experienced players like Maweni, Brazill, and Mentor showcased their class. Hearts were broken, tears were shed, and glory came to one team. As the event concluded, anticipation grows for the next Netball World Cup in 2027, to be held in Sydney, Australia, where the journey continues.
