Netball SA boss plans blockbuster Test matches for Proteas ahead of 2027 World Cup

By Charles Baloyi
10th August 2026

Netball South Africa (NSA) CEO Adam Brooke has promised to secure high-profile international Test matches for the Proteas as part of their build-up to the 2027 Netball World Cup in Australia.

Brooke says South Africa will continue to value clashes against strong African rivals such as Malawi and Uganda, but believes the time has come for the Proteas to regularly test themselves against the world’s leading nations, including Australia, New Zealand, and England.

The recently appointed NSA chief wants those top-ranked teams to travel to South Africa next year, with matches hosted in major cities instead of the Proteas constantly touring overseas.

South Africa is currently ranked fifth in the world and are eager to close the gap on the sport’s traditional powerhouses.

"I am absolutely not disregarding our African sisters. They will always have a place to play in our tournaments. We, as Africans, need to stand together and showcase our talent, whether it is Malawi, Uganda, Botswana, Namibia, or whoever it might be. I think a great example of what we have here at the SPAR Championships is the fact that Namibia and Botswana have requested to come play in these Championships, and we have given them that opportunity because it's only going to better them," said Brooke.

READ: Netball SA boss vows full backing for Proteas technical team

"But yes, I had really good discussions with England; we are actually in the process of tying up agreements on us going there and them coming back to us. I had great discussions with New Zealand, Jamaica, and Australia, and they have all committed to coming to South Africa, as well as us going to them. So that is definitely on the cards."

Brooke, who was part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup organising team, says he was encouraged by the conversations he had with fellow administrators during the recent Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

He believes the Proteas also need a balanced international programme that includes teams ranked below them, such as Scotland and Ireland, to ensure consistent competition throughout the season.

The experienced 49-year-old administrator says his goal is to make the Proteas a stronger and more competitive side by arranging additional overseas training camps.

Brooke wants the national team to gain greater exposure to world-class facilities, elite coaching environments, and advanced sports science support.

He admits South Africa is competing against nations with superior resources and infrastructure, making international preparation even more important ahead of the World Cup.

Four months into the role, Brooke says leading Netball South Africa has been far more demanding than many people imagine.

The former sports administrator, who replaced Modiegi Komane in March, admits the position comes with significant pressure, but says he is encouraged by the progress already being made within the federation.

Brooke believes the organisation is moving in the right direction and remains confident that the Proteas are laying a solid foundation for a successful 2027 World Cup campaign.