News
Where to watch the NSL: Round 2
After an action packed first round, the Netball Super League (NSL) continues this weekend, with all four games available to watch live on Sky Sports and BBC Sport.
With a grand final rematch, two NSL debuts from the League’s newest clubs, and plenty of Soft & Gentle Super Shots, round one delivered plenty of unmissable moments.
As round two gets underway all four games across the weekend will be available to watch free-to-air, live and on-demand across Sky Sports and BBC Sport, so read on to find out exactly where to watch each game.
Nottingham Forest vs LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons - Friday 21 March, FCP 19:30
Keen to show the NSL exactly what they’re made of, Nottingham Forest are getting ready to host the LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons in their first ever home game at the Motorpoint Arena. With both teams facing a loss in the opening round, who will be able to get their first win of the season on the board?
Where to watch: This game will be broadcast on Sky Sports YouTube.
International viewers can watch on NetballPass.
You can buy tickets to watch live here.
Nottingham Forest player to watch: Wing attack Brie Grierson’s battle with Zara Everitt in round one saw her bring grit and tenacity to the court along with her trademark attacking flair. Facing a different challenge in round two, Grierson will need to take on the Dragons’ defence with intent to ensure a healthy supply of ball to goal shooter Rolene Streutker.
LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons player to watch: Chelsea Beard returned to court in round one after the birth of her third child and was one of the standout players for the LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons, sinking a flurry of Soft & Gentle Super Shots to keep her side in the game when London Mavericks threatened to pull away. Dragons fans will be looking forward to more long bombs from Beard as round two gets underway.
Credit: Gareth Everett
Birmingham Panthers vs Manchester Thunder - Friday 21 March, FCP 19:30
Another new franchise looking to get their first win on the board, Birmingham Panthers host Manchester Thunder at the BP Pulse Live Arena on Friday evening. In what will be Panthers’ first ever home game, they’ll be looking for loud support from the Birmingham crowd to get them over the line against four-time NSL champions Manchester Thunder.
Where to watch: This game will be broadcast on Sky Sports Mix and YouTube.
International viewers can watch on NetballPass.
You can buy tickets to watch live here.
Birmingham Panthers player to watch: Betsy Creak made a real statement with her performance in round one, not only slotting plenty of goals for her new side but also earning multiple defensive turnovers. Look out for more from the goal attack in round two, who’ll be determined to do everything she can to power her side to their first win.
Manchester Thunder player to watch: Emma Rayner’s move from wing attack to centre was one of many positive signs for Manchester Thunder despite their round one loss to Loughborough Lightning. The midcourter’s relentless speed and movement provided multiple options for her teammates throughout the court. Head coach Karen Greig will be looking for more of the same from the Future Roses player as her team continue to hunt for their first win of the season on Friday.
Credit: Ben Lumley
Loughborough Lightning vs London Pulse – Saturday 22 March, FCP 18:00
Loughborough Lightning and London Pulse both got their 2025 campaigns off to a winning start in round one, but only one of these teams will remain unbeaten after round two. Will it be the reigning champions Loughborough Lightning or a strengthened London Pulse team who are determined to make 2025 their season?
Where to watch: This game will be broadcast on BBC Sport and BBC iPlayer here.
International viewers can watch on NetballPass.
You can buy tickets to watch live here.
Loughborough Lightning player to watch: Shadine van der Merwe put out an exceptional performance against her old side Manchester Thunder last weekend. Her relentless work rate created huge defensive pressure which allowed her to win ball at crucial times for her team. She was chosen as the Experience Kissimmee Player of the Match and will look to cement her position as one of the strongest defenders in the League with more powerful play in round two.
London Pulse player to watch: Gracie Smith made her NSL debut in round one and caught the eyes of many fans watching at the Copper Box Arena and those watching at home. Aged just 16, Smith is a rapidly rising young talent who plays with confidence far beyond her years and will be sure to relish the opportunity if she gets to take to court on Saturday against defending champions Loughborough Lightning.
Credit: Ben Lumley
London Mavericks vs NIC Leeds Rhinos – Sunday 23 March, FCP 16:00
Round two will close out with another blockbuster match as London Mavericks and NIC Leeds Rhinos both look to continue their winning starts to NSL 2025. Playing at home, London Mavericks are bringing the NSL to the Brentwood Centre for the first time in this battle of the north versus the south.
Where to watch: This game will be broadcast on Sky Sports YouTube.
International viewers can watch on NetballPass.
Tickets to this game are sold out.
London Mavericks player to watch: Ellie Rattu put out a captain’s performance to guide her team to victory against the LexisNexis Cardiff Dragons in round one. From spectacular defensive wins to smooth and controlled feeds to her shooters in the circle, Rattu will be a key player for fans to keep an eye out for on Sunday.
NIC Leeds Rhinos player to watch: Joyce Mvula scooped the Experience Kissimmee Player of the Match award in round one thanks to her composed shooting under pressure, and who can forget that remarkable Soft & Gentle Super Shot scored from the very edge of the shooting circle? If NIC Leeds Rhinos are to pick up another win this week, Mvula’s performance is sure to be a key factor in their success.
