Space for any opponent is the relevant idea
World Netball’s short-pass FAQ explains that the required space to deflect or intercept concerns any opposing player, not necessarily the nearest one. Screening one particular defender therefore does not by itself establish a short pass if another could contest it legally.
Two attackers pass while one defender is screened. Another opponent has an available route to challenge the passing space. Judging only the screened player’s reach would omit the wider opportunity described by the rule.
A tight camera can hide the other route
The ball and closest defender may fill the screen while an opponent outside that crop supplies the missing context. Use a wider view to understand the available space rather than measuring only the gap around one defender.
This is not a numerical minimum-distance rule invented for every pass. The resource describes sufficient contestable space, and other rules still govern screens and obstruction. The original comparison changes which defender is considered while keeping the pass itself the same. It explains why a successful short-looking pass is not automatically a short-pass infringement simply because the nearest opponent was unable to reach it.
Questions answered
Must the opportunity belong to the closest defender?
No.
Does this excuse every screening action?
No. Other applicable rules remain relevant.
Sources & further reading
Official references for the subjects discussed. Service terms and device software can change.