India to host first-ever Men’s Asian Netball Championship in February 2026

By Susil Premalal

In a historic move for the sport, Netball Asia (NA) has decided to host the first-ever Men’s Asian Netball Championship in 2026, marking a major milestone for the development of men’s netball across the region. The tournament will be held in New Delhi, India, from February 5 to 12, 2026, with all matches scheduled to take place at the Thyagaraj Stadium.

The Netball Federation of India has officially been awarded the hosting rights, following approval from the NA Executive Committee. This will be India’s first time hosting a continental-level men’s netball event.

NA officials expect participation from all top men’s national netball teams affiliated with Netball Asia. Invitations have already been sent to the respective National Netball Associations across the region to confirm their entries for the championship.

Countries with a strong presence in Asian netball—Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, India, Maldives, and Pakistan—are among the key nations expected to compete. Officials from both Netball Asia and India anticipate representation from all major member countries, making the tournament a landmark event for the sport’s expansion.

Sri Lanka, traditionally one of Asia’s most dominant netball nations, is also expected to participate. However, with the Sri Lanka Netball Federation currently inactive, the country’s entry will likely be facilitated either through the intervention of the Ministry of Sports or after the appointment of an official interim or newly elected administration. Once the federation’s structure is reinstated, Sri Lanka’s participation is expected to be confirmed.

The 2026 Men’s Asian Netball Championship marks a significant step toward elevating the visibility and competitiveness of men’s netball in the region, setting the stage for future international growth and recognition.