Lightning’s Cobden ruled out of Commonwealth Games
LOUGHBOROUGH Lightning’s Beth Coben has been ruled out of England’s netball squad for the Commonwealth Games after suffering a calf injury.
Cobden, who plays both wing defence and centre, was pivotal during Lightning’s last campaign as Vic Burgess’ side reached the Vitality Netball Superleague Grand Final.
The 29-year-old was also part of the victorious England team at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth
Games and was hoping to help the team retain their title on home soil.
Imogen Allison has been called up to England’s squad for the Commonwealth Games to replace Cobden.
The 24-year-old was originally named as a reserve for the defending champions and had been training with the national squad at camps in South Africa and Nottingham.
“I’m still speechless about it to be honest,” said Allison.
“I don’t think words could describe how excited I am.”
Allison, who plays wing defence, led her club side
Bath to a top-four finish in the 2022 Vitality Netball Superleague and has been patiently been waiting for a chance to make her international breakthrough. England head coach Jess Thirlby said: “Circumstances have obviously led to an opportunity for Imogen. “She joins with four other Commonwealth Games debutants, which is super exciting for her.
“She has been one of our young, up and coming stars over the last couple of years and this is a fantastic reward for the effort and progress she’s made over the past few seasons.”
In 2018, England beat Australia 52-51 in a gripping final on the Gold Coast, with Cobden part of the side.
England start their Commonwealth Games defence on Friday, July 29 against Trinidad and Tobago at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham.