As the Vitality Red Roses prepare to face New Zealand, Helen Housby’s leadership is drawing significant attention. The 30-year-old star is set to earn her 111th cap during the highly anticipated match on Saturday. Former England international Tamsin Greenway described Housby as a key player and a pivotal leader for the team.
Housby’s Impact on the Game
Housby is known for her game-winning abilities, having notably scored the decisive goal that led England to their first Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2018. Greenway emphasized Housby’s importance on the court, stating, “She plays in the circle and is always going to put in the winning goals.”
Upcoming Series Against New Zealand
The series against the Silver Ferns represents an incredible opportunity for the Red Roses. They last faced New Zealand during a landmark series in 2022, where England achieved a historic 2-1 victory. Greenway noted that this upcoming series is crucial as England looks to strengthen their position against the world number two.
Match Schedule
The matches will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with the following schedule:
- Saturday, November 15: England vs. New Zealand, 5 PM, Copper Box Arena, London
- Sunday, November 16: England vs. New Zealand, 3 PM, Copper Box Arena, London
- Wednesday, November 19: England vs. New Zealand, 7 PM, AO Arena, Manchester
The Road Ahead
Looking toward future competitions, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the Red Roses are focused on building momentum. With new talents like Sasha Glasgow and Lois Pearson joining the squad, the team’s prospects appear bright.
Competitive Landscape
Despite their recent successes, England remains aware of the unpredictable nature of New Zealand’s playstyle. Greenway’s insights stress the need for England to remain vigilant, as past performances do not guarantee future results. Overall, the atmosphere in the camp is one of enthusiasm and confidence as they gear up for this pivotal series.
