SINGAPORE - Early bird tickets for this year's Missions Food Nations Cup netball tournament began on Friday (June 17).

Host Singapore, ranked 16 in the world, will face world-class teams Ireland (world No. 12), Papua New Guinea (No. 15), Canada (No. 19), Botswana (No. 20) and new addition Zambia (No. 17) at the OCBC Arena.

Northern Ireland defeated Papua New Guinea in last year's final to capture its second championship.

Said Netball Singapore's chief executive Cyrus Medora: "Netball has come a long way in Singapore, with the Missions Foods Nations Cup making past a decade and entering its 11th edition this year.

"Netball has always been one of the most popular sport amongst females of all ages, and increasingly with the males in mixed teams at our events. With six national teams from various continents participating this year, we are sure that the mix of talent and playing styles will present a thrilling action packed tournament not to be missed."

Tickets to the Sept 4-10 competition start from $3 (concession) and are available online at apactix.com.

Correction Note: A previous version of this article stated that Northern Ireland will be competing in the Nations Cup. It should be Ireland. This has been corrected.