Conflict could reduce teams at Asian netball

By Susil Premalal

Several countries in the Middle East are yet to confirm their participation in the Asian Senior Netball championships due to the war situation.

The tournament is scheduled to be held in Hong Kong from August 7 to 16.

The championship will also serve as the Asian qualifying event for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, with the top two teams securing qualification.

Earlier, 16 countries, including Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain were set to field teams at the event.

However, with no Middle Eastern nation having provided final confirmation so far, officials fear that the number of participating teams could be lower this year.

The uncertainty has also delayed the preparation of the official match schedule for the tournament.

In addition, several countries are reportedly facing difficulties due to the sharp increase in air ticket prices and challenges in obtaining Hong Kong visas.

Sri Lanka remains the most successful nation in the history of the Asian Senior Netball Championship. At the previous tournament held in Bengaluru in 2024, Sri Lanka finished runners-up after losing to Singapore in the final.