2026 South East Asia Championship (SEARF): Tournament Schedule, Results and How to Watch

The inaugural SEA Women’s XV Championship 2026 is set to kick off in Kuala Lumpur, marking a massive milestone for rugby in the region. This tournament is the women’s equivalent of the Asia Unions Cup (Men’s) and features the Philippines, Singapore, and hosts Malaysia competing from February 8 to 14, 2026. For all three Unions, these matches represent a long awaited return to Women’s XV Test rugby after many years on the sidelines.

This tournament comes at a critical time for the sport in Asia. Currently, Asia Rugby is under a provisional suspension from the World Rugby Council due to ongoing concerns regarding governance and financial controls. With the regional governing body’s official schedule in limbo, these Southeast Asian unions have taken the initiative to come together independently. By organizing this championship, they are ensuring that their national teams have a platform to compete and that the development of the women’s game does not stall during this period of administrative uncertainty.

Initially, Indonesia was also scheduled to participate. However, it was confirmed in late January that they withdrew from the competition.

The Teams

Malaysia (Bunga Raya 15s)

For the hosts, this is a historic moment. The last time the Malaysian women’s XV played a Test match was 17 years ago in 2009. Mohd Fahmy Abdul Jalil, the Honorary Secretary General of Malaysia Rugby, told Rugby Asia 247 that returning to the international stage is a significant milestone for the union and the players.

He noted that preparations under Head Coach Raimi Yusof have focused on intensive training camps and strategic planning to ensure the squad is ready for the comeback. The union sees this tournament as a vital step toward building a sustainable and competitive women’s program that can eventually challenge the top teams in Asia.

Singapore

Singapore’s women have not played a 15s Test match since 2019 when they hosted the Asia Rugby Women’s Division 1. SRU GM Sidney Kumar told Rugby Asia 247 that this is a momentous occasion for their community.

The squad has been preparing for a month with a dedicated program to get players up to speed. Many in the team will be experiencing international rugby for the first time. The SRU hopes this competition becomes a consistent fixture that eventually builds into a Rugby World Cup pathway for Southeast Asian nations.

Philippines

The PRFU has confirmed that this will be the first capped international Women’s XV campaign for the Philippines in seven years. Captain Trixie Pacis shared her excitement with Rugby Asia 247, stating that it is an honor to be part of the return of the 15s game to the region. She believes that XVs rugby opens the door for deeper game knowledge and more inclusivity on the pitch. The Lady Volcanoes are ready to seize the moment in what they hope is the start of a consistent yearly calendar.