The women’s national netball team, Tala, have endured a difficult opening to their first-ever Commonwealth Games campaign after suffering heavy defeats to defending champions Australia and South Africa in Glasgow.

Despite the results, the tournament marks a historic milestone for Tongan netball as the nation competes at the Games for the first time.

Australia opened its title defence with a commanding 99-38 victory over Tonga, highlighting why the Diamonds remain favourites for a second consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal.

Shooters Sophie Garbin and Cara Koenen each scored 31 goals, while Tonga’s leading scorer, Uneeq Palavi, finished with 29 goals despite close defensive attention.

The Tala then faced another stern challenge against South Africa, who secured a record-breaking victory 96-42 over Tonga to strengthen their position in Pool A ahead of a key clash with England.

The result highlighted the strength of one of the tournament’s most competitive groups, which also includes Australia, England, Malawi and Northern Ireland.

Although the scorelines have been one-sided, Tonga’s qualification for Glasgow represents significant progress for the sport.

Ranked among the world’s top 10 nations, the Tala earned their place through the World Netball rankings and are competing alongside the Commonwealth’s elite teams for the first time.

Captain Hulita Veve has described representing Tonga on the Commonwealth stage as the culmination of years of sacrifice and determination.

Strong support from Tongan fans in Glasgow including Princess Latufuipeka Tukuʻaho has also reflected the pride surrounding the team’s historic debut.

Tonga will look to regroup as the pool competition continues, seeking improved performances and valuable experience against some of the world’s strongest netball nations.