The Silver Ferns have taken a major blow to their Commonwealth Games campaign after losing their third match in a shock 57-53 defeat to Malawi.

It was the first time the Silver Ferns have lost to a team other than Australia in the Commonwealth Games, and the first time in netball history that Malawi has claimed victory over New Zealand.

The Silver Ferns looked set for a comfortable win with a 10 point buffer right through the first few quarters, however, as Malawi closed in on New Zealand the cracks began to show.

The Ferns struggled to showcase any confidence throughout the final quarter as Malawi continued to turn up the pressure on a crumbling New Zealand side.

Tonight's loss could signify an all-time low for the once triumphant Silver Ferns, with the hopes of a Commonwealth Games medal looking less likely by the day.