When Karla Pretorius packed her bags for Glasgow this week, the veteran defender admitted she felt like a rookie all over again.
With the Commonwealth Games getting under way on Thursday, the 34-year-old will head into her third Games buoyed by the same excitement and nerves she experienced when she first pulled on the Spar Proteas jersey after returning to the international stage following a break from the national team.
“It feels like it’s my first tour,” Pretorius said in a Netball South Africa video clip. “It feels like that first time back in the day when I got my first cap.
“There’s that excitement and also a bit of nervousness as well. But it’s been really good coming back into this environment. I felt very welcomed and it’s kind of just continuing where I left off.”
Karla Pretorius is set for her third Commonwealth Games, bringing world-class experience, leadership and defensive excellence to #Glasgow2026. Some journeys come full circle. 💚💛
Pretorius returns to a South African side brimming with confidence after beginning the year by beating England in a Test series and arriving in Glasgow as African champions.
While the squad features several younger players, the experienced goal/wing defence believes her biggest contribution extends beyond shutting down opposition attacks.
“I think it’s important at an opportunity like this to share my experience of previous Commonwealth Games,” she said.
“It’s about sharing what worked, what didn’t work and being aware that there will be tough moments. It’s also about helping everyone embrace and enjoy the experience.”
Pretorius said she had been clear from the outset that understanding her role within coach Jenny van Dyk’s plans was key.
“As a player, you want to be the best version of yourself, whether that’s on or off the court. I just want to be the best for this group.”
The Proteas will be hoping to reach the podium in Glasgow for the first time, buoyed by their recent form and blend of youth and experience.
Proteas captain Khanyisa Chawane believes Pretorius’ influence could prove invaluable as South Africa chase a first Commonwealth Games medal since 1998.
“Even during training you can see the younger defenders going up to her, asking questions and having conversations with her,” Chawane said.
“She’s someone who has done it before and can help elevate the team. Every team Karla plays for, the standard goes up. You only have to look at the Crinums this year.”
The Free State Crinums completed an unbeaten Telkom Netball League campaign with Pretorius anchoring their defence, and Chawane believes that winning mentality has filtered into the national squad. South Africa have made no secret of their ambitions in Glasgow.
— Team South Africa (@OfficialTeamRSA) July 18, 2026
“We’ve been very clear from the very beginning,” Pretorius said.
“We want to end up on the podium. Everything we’ve done has been with that goal in mind.”
South Africa open their Pool A campaign against Malawi on Saturday at the OVO Hydro before facing Tonga, Northern Ireland, Australia and England. The top two teams will advance to the semi-finals at the beginning of August, with the medal matches taking place the following day.
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