The prestigious Piala Agong returns for its 42nd edition this year, continuing its proud legacy since 1983 as Malaysia’s most prestigious rugby championship. Featuring nine super teams from across the country, the tournament promises fierce rivalries, elite talents, and unforgettable battles. The opening match kicks off on 9 May, while the grand final is set for 26 June.
Johor
Johor enters Piala Agong 2026 as one of the joint favourites after narrowly losing to PDRM in last year’s final. The squad keeps getting stronger and their recruitment of several top players could make this their breakthrough season. Head coach Rodney So’oialo and manager Faizal Hassan have powerful weapons in Tim Nanai-Williams, Amirul Mukminin and Sameer Surinder.
ATM
ATM remains one of the fiercest teams in Malaysian rugby. Opponents simply cannot afford an average performance because ATM can punish mistakes brutally. The 11-time champions are eager to end their title drought since 1999. Guided by head coach Taufek Azmee and manager Yussrizal Jamaluddin, ATM will depend heavily on Mohsin Abdullah, Rostam Tugiman and Ilikena Vidugo.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur enters Pool A as dangerous dark horses capable of shocking bigger teams. Their squad is filled with consistent performers and a solid structure that is extremely difficult to break. After reaching the quarterfinals last season, KL hopes to go even further under head coach Ahmad Fadzlee Idriss and manager Shahrin Shamsuddin. Players to watch include Aiman Azlin, Amirul Hasbullah, Luqman Hakim and Diego Kaslam.
Kedah
Kedah may be labeled dark horses, but their fighting spirit makes them extremely dangerous. They are known for battling relentlessly until the final whistle, even against the strongest opponents. The 2008 champions will look to improve after last year’s group stage exit. Head coach Nik Mohd Shahiddan leads a determined squad featuring Mohd Nidzam, Nabil Saad and Akma Abd Manaf alongside manager Wan Asyraf.
Kelantan
Kelantan possesses exciting talents capable of destroying any opponent’s championship dreams. The four-time champions enjoyed golden years between 2005 and 2012 and proved last season they remain competitive after finishing third. Despite entering as underdogs, they cannot be underestimated. Head coach Farid Syazwan and manager Zyuraidi Majid will look towards Azwan Zuwairi, Syarif Saiful Aazwan and Khairul Abdillah for inspiration.
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Putrajaya
Putrajaya brings an impressive balance of youth and experience into Pool B. Their chemistry and attacking combinations can overwhelm opponents quickly when momentum builds. Champions in 2022, Putrajaya aims to re-establish themselves among the elite sides. Guided by head coach Hakimi Ismail and manager Adam Abdullah, the team features talented names such as Danial Afiq, Azmi Saruman and Petero Tuwai.
Terengganu
Terengganu enters the tournament as one of the strongest challengers in Pool A. Known for their solid and steady performances, they possess the quality to compete against any team. The 2019 champions reached the quarterfinals last season and will target another deep run. Head coach Aminuddin Sulong has dependable figures in Syahir Ashraf, Timoci Vunimoku, Nasharuddin Ismail and Alif Ikhmal alongside manager Haqiuddin Adli.
Negeri Sembilan
Negeri Sembilan consistently remains among the title contenders thanks to their skillful and talented squad. The three-time champions are still chasing their first title since 2003 and will be highly motivated this season. Head coach Mazuri Sallehudin and manager Megat Faisal will count on the experience and attacking threats of Muhammad Nilam, Adeen Iman, Faris Pead and Esala Nalobo.
PDRM
PDRM remains the team to beat after securing their third consecutive title last season. With quality players in every position, the defending champions appear ready to continue their domination of Malaysian rugby. Six-time champions PDRM enters Pool A as overwhelming favourites under head coach Dinesvaran Krishnan and manager Nasri Mansor, with Amirul Aqil, Hakim Ramli and Lee Chapman expected to lead the charge.
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