Scaling down the Commonwealth Games means fewer sports, fewer athletes and fewer venues.
The cost-cutting measures left many – including long-standing core sports which see the Commonwealth Games as the pinnacle – facing an anxious wait.
Netball was one of them. Yet to be elevated to an Olympic sport, its biggest global platform is the Commonwealth Games and there was a sense of relief that it will feature in Glasgow.
Scotland international Niamh McCall said she was “glued” to the news of the decision because of the impact being included – or not – would have on her sport.
“I was so nervous for the list to come out, so I’m super happy and excited netball has been selected,” McCall told BBC Scotland.
“The Commonwealth Games are massive for our sport because we don’t compete at the Olympics. It is important and for young girls to see us play and get involved.”
Netball Australia, whose team won the first Commonwealth gold in 1998 and are reigning champions, said the decision was indicative of netball’s “depth and strength”.
Boxing and lawn bowls – both present in the inaugural edition of the event in 1930 – have also made the cut despite fears they might be dropped.
Officials from World Bowls, Bowls Scotland and Bowls England said they were “delighted” with the decision.
“The Commonwealth Games is the pinnacle event for our sport,” added the world governing body.
“It creates unparalleled levels of visibility, inspires new people to take up bowls and provides a North Star for our leading bowlers.”
Para sport will once again be fully integrated at the Games, with six events included on the programme.
“Integration of Para-sport has been a very successful aspect of the Commonwealth Games programme since Manchester 2002,” said Paralympics Australia interim CEO Cameron Murray.
“While the reduced programme means some sports are unable to compete at these Games, we are pleased to see a high level of representation that ensures the Games remains a great example of inclusion and diversity in elite sport.”