Nervous Netballers Worry Over Future of ANZ Premiership with Uncertainty Around New Broadcast Deal

The Mystics take on the Tactix in Sunday’s ANZ Premiership grand final in Auckland. Sunday’s final is being overshadowed by the lack of a broadcast partner for the 2026 competition and players are worried for their livelihoods.

Professional Future at Stake

As the ANZ Premiership grand final approaches, the spotlight is not just on the game itself, but on the uncertain future of professional netball in New Zealand. The absence of a confirmed broadcast deal for the 2026 season has cast a shadow over the competition, with players expressing deep concerns about their livelihoods.

Netball New Zealand (NNZ) has committed to continuing the domestic competition in 2026 in its current six-team format, but the lack of a financial backer has left many uneasy. Broadcast rights are a crucial component of the league’s financial stability, and without them, player salaries and the overall viability of the competition are at risk.

Tactix captain Erikana Pedersen shared the anxiety felt by many in the squad. “This is our livelihoods, we do this as a job, so it is quite scary not having that certainty,” she said. “We’ve been nervous.”

Financial Struggles and Media Reports

Recent media reports suggest that the previous broadcast deal with SKY TV was significantly less lucrative than its predecessor. This financial strain has led to a reduction in the number of games, with the ANZ Premiership being cut from three rounds to two in 2025, effectively removing one-third of its games.

Tactix coach Donna Wilkins acknowledged the apprehension around the tournament’s future but emphasized the importance of securing the sport’s professional status. “I’m a little bit worried where netball is heading if I’m frank,” she said. “It would be sad to see this competition go.”

Eligibility Changes and Player Incentives

Complicating matters further is the recent change in Silver Ferns eligibility, which allows players heading to Australia to apply for a dispensation to represent the national side. This could lead to a weakened product, as some of the competition’s biggest stars may be absent.

With players potentially earning up to $60,000 more by competing in Australia, the incentive to remain in New Zealand is diminished. This has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the ANZ Premiership.

Despite these challenges, the Tactix and Mystics are set to face off in Sunday’s grand final, a moment that underscores both the current excitement of the sport and the looming uncertainty that awaits it in the coming year.

Tactix coach Donna Wilkins admits she’s a little bit worried about where the sport is heading.

Looking Ahead

The coming months will be critical for the future of netball in New Zealand. Whether the ANZ Premiership can secure a new broadcast deal or attract new investment will determine whether the sport can continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of players.

As the grand final approaches, the focus remains on the game itself, but the larger conversation about the sport’s future cannot be ignored. With the support of fans, players, and stakeholders, there is still hope that netball in New Zealand can overcome these challenges and continue to grow.

The Mystics will take on the Tactix in Sunday’s ANZ Premiership grand final.