English Heptathlete Louise Hazel has confirmed she will defend her Commonwealth Title. 29 January 2014

Hepthathlete Louise Hazel has confirmed to the media that she will come out of retirement in a bid to defend her Commonwealth Title later this year.

The 28 year old, who won Gold in Delhi in 2010, says the lure of competing in Glasgow was too strong to resist.

She had already admitted Jessica Ennis-Hill’s pregnancy, which means she will miss the Games, was a ‘game changer’.

‘I’m in better shape than I thought I was in. I’m really excited and I can’t wait to get started’ she said.

Hazel announced her retirement from the Heptathlon in Septemer, but added she was ‘not ruling out other sports’.

But after a series of tests on Wednesday, involving sprint work, the long jump, shot put and sessions in the gym, she confirmed her return.

‘I was really pleasantly surprised by my tests. It’s a thumbs up for Glasgow, if I’m selected’ said Hazel, who will put put together a ‘plan that involves coaching and sponsorship’.

She added, ‘I also have to chat to Commonwealth Games England to discuss the selection process and to see what hurdles have to be overcome’.

‘I wouldn’t be doing this if I didn’t think I could sucessfully defend my Commonwealth crown - I’m definitely targeting the podium’.

After making her major Championships debt for Great Britain at the 2006 European Championships, Hazel finished 14th at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.