The 2026 One NICO Top 12 Netball Cup gets underway this Friday, with the Southern Region hosting the opening play-offs from 9 to 11 October at the Blantyre Sports Arena.

The competition, organised by the Netball Association of Malawi (NAM), will be played in two phases. The first features qualifying play-offs across Malawi’s four regions, with the top three teams from each region advancing to form the 12-team field for the One NICO Top 12 National Finals.

The finalists will then battle for the championship and the right to be crowned the 2026 winners.

Blue Eagles, the inaugural champions, return as defending champions as they look to retain the crown.

NAM General Secretary Yamikani Kauma Khungwa says the play-offs will provide an important platform for competitive netball and talent identification.

“As we head into the 2026 One NICO Top 12 regional play-offs, we are expecting exciting and competitive netball from across the country,” said Kauma Khungwa.

She has urged participating teams to compete strongly while maintaining discipline and respect.

“We encourage all teams to compete hard, but also to uphold discipline, respect and good sportsmanship.”

Kauma Khungwa says the competition will also form part of NAM’s efforts to identify young players for the Malawi Queens developmental pathway.

“We are looking to scout young and talented players who can join our Malawi Queens developmental squad, the Under-23 team, which is expected to compete in the Telkom Premier League in South Africa next year.”

She believes the competition provides a valuable opportunity for young players to put themselves in contention.

“This is a great opportunity for players to show what they can do. We wish all teams the very best and look forward to seeing the next generation of Malawian netball talent emerge.”