Blow to sports diplomacy as India pulls out of CA Volleyball

ISLAMABAD: In a significant blow to the regional sports diplomacy, the Indian volleyball team has officially pulled out of the upcoming Central Asian Volleyball Championship scheduled to kick off from May 28 in Islamabad.

The withdrawal follows the Indian government’s last-minute revocation of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) earlier granted to the team -- a move that underscores the rapidly escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan.

The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) confirmed that it received formal communication from its Indian counterpart, expressing regret over the withdrawal.

“The Indian federation has informed us that their government has cancelled the previously issued NOC. As a result, the Indian team will no longer be able to travel to Pakistan for the tournament,” a PVF official told ‘The News’.

India had been gearing up to participate with a robust 30-member delegation, having submitted a by-name entry well ahead of the event. The PVF had already begun processing visa applications through the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and had made preliminary arrangements for the team’s accommodations in Islamabad.

India was not only one of the earliest nations to confirm its participation but had also requested expedited travel documentation and hotel reservations -- a strong signal of their initial commitment to the regional sporting event.

However, the evolving political climate has cast a long shadow over the tournament. What was poised to be a symbol of regional unity through sport is now marked by the grim realities of strained bilateral relations. “The recent developments between the two countries have drastically altered the situation,” said the PVF official.

“We’re now exploring alternate teams to fill the vacancy left by India, while also reassuring other participants about the comprehensive security measures being put in place.” The Central Asian Volleyball Championship, set to run from May 28 to June 4 at Islamabad’s iconic Liaquat Gymnasium, will still host a competitive lineup.

Teams from Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have already confirmed their participation. Sri Lanka is also expected to announce its entry in the coming days. In a promising development, the Russian volleyball team has confirmed its visit to Pakistan in June for a series of international matches.

“Russia or another regional team may well step in to replace India in the championship,” a PVF official noted. “We remain committed to ensuring a successful and secure tournament, despite the unforeseen setback.”

The exclusion of India -- a key player in the regional volleyball circuit -- is undeniably a disappointment for fans and athletes alike. Yet, the PVF remains undeterred in its mission to host an international event that champions sportsmanship and cross-border collaboration, even in the face of political adversity.