NSL 2026 Introduces A Brand New NSL Regional Cup, Gathering World-Class Players

CelcomDigi joins NSL for the very first time as title sponsor

Kuala Lumpur, 1 April 2026 – The Netball Super League (NSL) returns for its fifth season this year with several new and exciting developments, including the inaugural NSL Regional Cup and the participation of world‑class international players in the tournament. These new introductions further strengthen the league’s position as a rapidly growing professional netball platform in the Asian region.

CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi) is also joining NSL for the first time as title sponsor, reflecting the corporate sector’s confidence in the league’s potential as a platform for advancing women’s professional netball in Malaysia.

Astro, in collaboration with the Malaysian Netball Association (PBJM), will officially kick off the 2026 Netball Super League season starting 11 April to 17 May at Stadium Juara, Bukit Kiara. Eight teams will compete in 64 matches across the six‑week season.

A key highlight of the 2026 season is the NSL Regional Cup, which will take place from 14 to 17 May 2026, following the conclusion of the main league. The tournament will feature two invitational teams from Singapore and Hong Kong, together with the top two NSL teams.

This season will also see the participation of 16 import players from renowned netball nations including Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, South Africa, Uganda, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Their involvement is expected to elevate the league’s competitiveness while providing valuable exposure to local players. Among the most anticipated names this season are former Australian Diamonds player Gretel Bueta and New Zealand Silver Ferns legend Laura Langman, both veterans of the Netball World Cup and elite professional leagues.

YB Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Minister of Youth and Sports Malaysia, said, “The growth of NSL reflects the positive progress of netball in Malaysia, which continues to gain regional and international attention. Last year marked a proud achievement for netball when our national team won the gold medal at the SEA Games. Our youth team also secured qualification for the Netball World Youth Cup after finishing as runners-up at the Asian Youth Netball Championship.”

“These achievements demonstrate that netball development in Malaysia is on the right track, and leagues such as the Netball Super League play an important role in providing competitive platforms to nurture new talent and strengthen our national team for the future.”

Nicholas John, Head of Sports, Astro said, “Since its introduction in 2021, the Netball Super League has continued to show positive momentum, particularly in terms of digital audience engagement. Last season alone, NSL content on Astro Arena’s social media platforms recorded over 33 million views, reflecting a growing interest for the sports among Malaysian sports fans.”

“Digital platforms such as Astro GO and Sooka have also played a key role in expanding NSL’s reach, especially among younger audiences who follow sports content digitally. We have also extended the league’s international reach, as selected NSL matches will be broadcast on the global sports channel W‑Sport, continuing the broadcasting partnership established since 2023. With the introduction of the NSL Regional Cup and the enhanced quality of players this season, we are confident that NSL will continue evolving into a competitive regional netball platform.”

Chan May Ling, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, CelcomDigi, said, “CelcomDigi’s participation as the title sponsor reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting local sports development through Arena CelcomDigi. We’re excited to join Netball Super League as the title sponsor for this season. Netball is one of the rapidly growing sports in Malaysia, and we believe platforms like NSL play a crucial role in nurturing new talent and developing high‑performance athletes capable of competing internationally.”

“As a telecommunications brand with the widest network coverage in Malaysia, we believe connectivity is not just about technology—it is a catalyst for opportunities, dreams and success. Through this collaboration, we are not only supporting the league but also strengthening a sustainable netball ecosystem, uniting fans, empowering talent at all levels and elevating women’s sports in Malaysia.”

YB Alwiyah Talib, President of the Malaysian Netball Association, added that, “This season’s competition format is expected to once again deliver intense matchups similar to last season. NSL will maintain the round-robin format before the top four teams advance to the knockout stage to determine the champion. Last season ended with a thrilling finale when the KL Wildcats emerged victorious, defeating the Putrajaya Dynamites by just one point.”

“With the participation of high-profile import players, including those with international experience, I believe this season will showcase an even more competitive gameplay and provide valuable exposure to local players.”

Beyond the main tournament, NSL will continue its commitment to talent development through Klinik NSL, a grassroot initiative that allows young participants to learn the game’s fundamentals and interact directly with NSL players. Outstanding participants from these clinics will be selected for the Klinik NSL Boot Camp and will have the opportunity to compete in an exhibition match at the official NSL court. Registration for Klink NSL is now open via the following link: https://promotions.astro.com.my/details/klinikNSL

Ticket sales for the new season of NSL opens today and can be purchased online through tickethotline.com.my. Fans can witness exciting action from both local and international players live at Stadium Juara, Bukit Kiara. For updates, match schedules, exclusive highlights and behind-the-scenes content, follow our official Instagram @nsl.my or Facebook page Netball Super League.

In addition to CelcomDigi as the title sponsor, the 2026 Netball Super League is also supported by Elite as the official apparel partner, Figos as the official ball partner and Trigo Hotel Kuala Lumpur as the official hotel, while Mitre serves as the strategic partner for the Klinik NSL development programme. NSL is also supported by other partners, including Asics as the official footwear and ERA FM as the official radio station.

Catch the fifth season of the Netball Super League on Astro Arena (Channel 801), Astro GO and Sooka from 12 April to 17 May 2026. Astro invites customers to enjoy greater value with the Astro One Pack, now starting from RM49.99*, offering seamless streaming and unlimited entertainment. Interested customers may visit astro.com.my or contact Astro via WhatsApp at 03 9543 3838.