The season began in February but was paused on March 15 as the coronavirus crisis worsened. 

Since then, the VNSL Board have been working with England Netball, the 10 teams in the league and key stakeholders to reach a decision on the season.

Various scenarios including extending the season and holding matches behind closed doors were considered, but the cancellation of competition was decided to be the most appropriate measure.

England Netball and the VNSL Board are still continuing to review the option of a standalone short-form tournament later this year if it is safe to do so. 

"After many weeks of following Government guidance and planning for a variety of different scenarios, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 VNSL season," said England Netball chief executive Fran Connolly.

"It has become clear that large sporting gatherings will unlikely be deemed safe in coming months and after lengthy discussions we believe it would not be logistically possible or sustainable without crowds to reignite the season, which we are very disappointed to have to announce but it’s vital we no longer keep teams and players in limbo on the matter.

"The start of the 2020 season was the most successful yet with record breaking crowds joining us for the season opener in February. 

"We don’t want to see that momentum dwindle away, but it’s key that we protect the longevity of all 10 VNSL teams so that we can come back next season bigger and stronger than before. 

"We do hope though in the meantime that fans continue to support their teams and stay engaged with the sport digitally until we can all get on court again."

The Netball Performance League, which was also suspended in March and comprises an under-19 and under-21 league contested by the English-based VNSL teams, has also now been concluded.

While netball has been suspended, the International Netball Federation (INF) has been hosting online regional roadshows for its members. 

The roadshows provide guidance on international events and share frameworks and tools for a safe return to netball.

The first two were held earlier this month for Netball Europe and Asia Netball.

INF President Liz Nicholl and chief executive Clare Briegal led the meetings so far. 

"The INF is fundamentally a members organisation and the growth and progression of the game depends on their support, and we, in turn, must support them," said Briegal.

"It goes without saying that all our regions have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, some significantly more than others. 

"The roadshows provide an opportunity to engage with our members by understanding their current situation and how the virus has affected netball associations around the world. 

"It also enables us to provide guidelines and advice to further support members through this unprecedented time."

During the roadshows, it was revealed that the Netball World Youth Cup 2021 qualifiers, due to be held by October 2020, have been cancelled and  INF world rankings will be used to determine the result instead. 

The world rankings will be published in May to reflect matches played before international events were cancelled, with the INF Board currently consulting with members regarding the treatment of world rankings during the return to international play.