Jamaica have not played an international match since the Nations Cup in England in January ©Getty Images

England Netball has announced plans to host a four-match series against Jamaica in January, which would mark the team's first home games for a year.

Following discussions with Public Health England and the Jamaican team, it has been agreed that they can travel to the country in January and then serve a period of isolation before the series begins.

At present, anyone arriving in England from Jamaica must self-isolate for 14 days. 

International netball was brought to a standstill by the pandemic, although England were able to play three games against New Zealand in New Zealand recently.

England's head coach Jess Thirlby did not make the trip after testing positive for COVID-19.

Jamaica have not played since last January, when they faced England, South Africa and New Zealand in the Nations Cup.

"We are absolutely delighted to announce that international netball will once again be showcased on home soil," England netball chief executive Fran Connolly said.

England flew to New Zealand to play the Silver Ferns in October and November ©Getty Images
England flew to New Zealand to play the Silver Ferns in October and November ©Getty Images

"After an incredibly tough year for not only netball, but all sport, we didn’t know if this series would be possible. 

"Getting the Vitality Roses to New Zealand for a tournament there in November was a huge feat, but to now be able to host some competition ourselves too is a huge privilege.

"Whilst this series will look different from what we’re used to without fans in attendance, we know that the Netball Family will be cheering on the Vitality Roses from homes across the country.

"A tremendous amount of work and effort has gone into making this possible, and we will be following extensive medical guidance and ensuring strict safety protocols are in place throughout for the safety of all involved. There’s still a lot of work to do but we are so pleased to be able to get this series agreed.

"Thank you to everyone at England Netball for their tireless work, Public Health England for their ongoing guidance and Netball Jamaica for making this happen."

The four-game contest will be branded as the Vitality Netball Legends Series, which is set to revert to the autumn following the first edition and see England face different competition each year.

The teams will battle it out for the Jean Hornsby Cup, named in honour of the first black player to represent England.