Sri Lanka, six-time Asian champions whose most recent title came against Singapore in 2022, will look to reclaim continental glory at the 14th Asian Senior Netball Championship this summer in Hong Kong, China. This edition carries immense significance for the Lionesses as it also serves as the Asian qualifying tournament for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney.
The Netball Exposure Series 2026 against New Zealand powerhouse Lincoln University A is a highly tactical six-match series designed by the Netball Federation of Sri Lanka to provide the national team with crucial international match fitness ahead of the championship.
Sri Lanka, captained by veteran Thisala Algama, and Lincoln University, led by Lily Early, faced off in an intense Game 6 showdown at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium on Wednesday morning. The contest ultimately ended with a single point separating the two sides.
Lincoln University started the game with early momentum, but Sri Lanka responded strongly to finish the opening quarter with an 18–14 lead after the first 15 minutes. Despite the encouraging start from the Lionesses, Lincoln University mounted a commanding comeback across the middle periods. Utilizing strategic defensive pressure and quick court transitions, the New Zealanders took control of the match to edge ahead 33–31 at halftime.
They maintained their tactical dominance throughout the third quarter, widening the gap further to close the period with a comfortable 48–43 advantage.
Entering the final 15-minute quarter, the match appeared to be slipping away as Sri Lanka consistently trailed by five to six points. Sensing the urgency, and spurred on by the home crowd, Thisala Algama and her team rallied for one final surge. Driven by fierce determination, they chipped away at the deficit in the final 90 seconds. Despite their heroic effort, Sri Lanka fell just short as the final whistle sounded, with Lincoln University claiming a thrilling 60–59 victory to conclude the series.
Nevertheless, the Sri Lankan women displayed tremendous spirit and determination throughout the contest. They can head into the Asian Championship with their heads held high, having demonstrated resilience, hunger, and the quality needed to challenge for a record seventh Asian title this August.
