Receiving her first centre pass at London’s Copper Box Arena will be an unforgettable moment for the skipper
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gurgle turns into a squawk, and the early throes of a weary cry – sure-fire signs that an afternoon nap is required. For much of her life, since her dramatic arrival in the pre-dawn hours of a May morning, the seven-month-old Miller has been a regular presence at England netball camps.
Sometimes she sleeps courtside, other times watches from a balcony, or is passed between arms of players and staff members eagerly seeking a cuddle during team meetings. Whatever it takes for her mother, the England netball captain, Nat Metcalf, to get back on court.
When Metcalf pulls on her England dress against Jamaica on Saturday, returning to competition for the first time since giving birth, Miller will be there, just as she always is. “The thought of playing for England with Miller around just feels …” starts Metcalf, before pausing, eyes filling with emotion. “Sorry, I nearly cried then.”
