The City of Johannesburg solidified its reputation as Africa’s premier sporting hub as the SPAR Proteas secured a resounding 65–50 victory over the England Roses, clinching the International Netball Test Series 2-1 in spectacular fashion at the Ellis Park Arena on Sunday, 1 Feb 2026.
The Proteas won the first match 52-48 and the Roses secured a 49-61 victory in the second match.
The final match was a masterclass in tactical netball played before a cheering crowd. Dressed in the iconic national green and gold, the South African side delivered a performance that was too visible to ignore and too clinical to overcome. The game was won on strategic depth.
While the England’s Roses attempted a flurry of substitutions to break the Proteas’ rhythm, the South African coaching staff maintained a steady hand, fielding a line-up that rose higher with every quarter.
Under the watchful eyes of Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero, SASCOC President Barry Hendricks, and Netball South Africa President Mami Diale, the Proteas displayed a “surgical” level of play. The fiery Sanmarie Visser (SA) was named Player of the Match as her intelligent play was unstoppable in the goal circle. Best shooter: Owethu Ngubane (SA). Best mid-court player: Tarme Mathe (SA). Best defender: Fran Williams (UK).
South Africa took charge from the first whistle, using an “iron-wall” defence and flawless passing sequences that left the Roses technically beaten. The success of the series highlights the City of Johannesburg’s commitment to world-class infrastructure and sports development. Mayor Morero expressed his pride in the Proteas.
“The girls are on fire today, far better than the Malawi games last year,” noting that the vibrant Mexican waves and electric energy at Ellis Park Arena were a testament to a city that is revitalised and open for global sport.
Not only is this victory a win for the Proteas, but it is also a win for Johannesburg. Hosting this successful series at Ellis Park Arena demonstrates the city’s capacity to provide a world-class stage for our athletes to shine.
The event concludes a landmark week for South African netball, proving that when the Proteas play in the heart of Johannesburg, they do not just compete—they conquer.
Written by Dr Karabo Semenya