Badminton ace Jess Pugh named in Commonwealth Games squad

Team England has named a full complement to represent the nation on Australia’s Gold Coast this April.

Telford shuttler Pugh, the 2017 national mixed doubles champion with Ben Lane, is one of four players making their Games debut. The 20-year-old will compete in the mixed doubles with Lane.

England’s badminton stars will travel to Australia with royal backing, after members of the squad recently enjoyed a private invitation with HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York, at Buckingham Palace.

HRH Prince Andrew, patron of Badminton England, chatted with each of the players and wished the team well ahead of the individual competition and team events.

World bronze medallists Chris and Gabby Adcock will look to defend their mixed doubles title that they won in Glasgow.

Team England Chef de Mission Sarah Winckless said: “The badminton team of five men and five women come to Team England with a great wealth of experience and a hunger to perform at these Games, which is motivating to work with.

“Despite their obvious experience, they have worked hard to understand the Games environment, so they can arrive with the right knowledge to ensure they are best prepared and ready.

“I congratulate the selected athletes and am proud to work with this exciting and motivated group.”