Central Asian Volleyball rolls into action today

ISLAMABAD: As the week-long volleyball action begins at the Liaquat Gymnasium today (Saturday), all the competing teams’ captains barring Afghanistan (arrived late on Friday), unveiled the Central Asian Volleyball Trophy that the winner will take away with them along with honour and ranking points.

Iran will set the Central Asian Volleyball rolling with the match against Turkmenistan and Pakistan playing their opening match later on Saturday against Afghanistan. Kyrgyzstan and Sri Lanka match is also scheduled for Saturday.

Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) Chairman Ch Mohammad Yaqoob highlighted the importance of the event that is being participated by the best teams around the region. “It will be just the beginning of international tournaments and series Pakistan are to play in months to come. As I have already shared with you, Australia will be here later this month on their first ever visit to Pakistan. Both the teams will then heading for Bahrain for the Challenge Cup. We are also trying to lure international teams to Pakistan for a series of matches later this month.”

Ch Yaqoob also revealed Pakistan’s plan to set up an offshore training camp in Europe during the period when there would be no international action.

“We have decided not to give leading players a long layoff. Instead, like Iran, we are planning to hold camp in Europe to keep players active and to give them regular international exposure by making them play against the best teams.” Around ten Pakistan volleyball players have already been hired by different countries for their respective leagues that would continue for almost four months.

“We are also planning to hold our own league later this year. What we want is to break even to start with and hopefully things would become favourable with the time.” Yaqoob called on fans to come and watch the action live at the gymnasium.

“Entry is free. Fans can enjoy the event to the fullest. Here I must take the opportunity to praise the government headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for their all-out support for this particular event.”

Masoud Yazdanpanah, the head of the international delegation, praised Pakistan’s hosting abilities, saying that every possible help is extended by the host nation to make their trip worth remembering.

Later the trophy unveiling ceremony herald the official commencement of the Central Asian Volleyball League at the Serena Hotels Islamabad. The unveiling ceremony showcased the prestigious trophy that awaits the victorious team, symbolizing the culmination of months of preparation and dedication.

Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, will grace the opening ceremony as the chief guest today (Saturday). Following the opening ceremony, the action-packed day will continue with a match between Pakistan and Afghanistan at 6:30pm, setting the stage for an exciting start to the tournament.