The International Federation of Netball Associations and the Commonwealth Games Federation have confirmed the twelve countries who will participate in this year’s netball tournament at the Commonwealth Games. As all Commonwealth countries ranked 1-11, plus hosts India, have accepted the invitation to play in Delhi, this effectively rules out Scotland who were ranked in 12th position from consideration.

Commenting Jon Doig, Commonwealth Games Scotland Chief Executive and Team Scotland Chef de Mission said: “Whist it is extremely disappointing for netball that they have not received an invitation to participate, it wasn’t totally unexpected. However we will continue to involve netball in the planning process for Delhi, just in case of any last minute withdrawals. However any late inclusion would still be on the basis that netball meets the Team Scotland selection criteria and can demonstrate their potential to finish in the top eight.

“Netball will also be included in our Achieve 2014 programme which will give up to two athletes and or one coach, the opportunity to go to Delhi to gain experience of a multi-sport Games. This will aid their preparations for Glasgow when they will receive an automatic invitation as host nation, although they will still be required to meet the Team Scotland selection standards.”

Reacting to the news Denise Holland, Netball Scotland National Coach said: “Whilst we are very disappointed to fall just short, we will remain focussed on our preparation and performances over the rest of the season and be ready to take advantage and step up to the challenge should a last minute opportunity come our way. We must take some comfort from the team’s progress over the past two years with increased competition in both the Netball superleague and internationally. Our continued rate of improvement bodes well for 2014where we are determined to be playing in front of a home crowd. We will put in every effort to ensure our dream of competing in a Commonwealth Games becomes a reality.”