(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
India and Afghanistan to Feature in Central Asian Volleyball Championship in Lahore
India and Afghanistan are among several countries set to participate in the upcoming Central Asian Men’s Volleyball Championship, which will be held in Lahore from July 3 to July 10, according to the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF).
PVF Chairman Chaudhry Mohammad Yaqoob confirmed that both countries have officially given their consent, and their participation details have been forwarded to the relevant authorities for visa processing.
He said the tournament will include eight participating nations, with additional teams such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, and Nepal also expected to take part. Iran and Uzbekistan may also join the competition.
Organisers described the event as an internationally recognized ranking tournament that will help participating teams earn valuable points while also showcasing Pakistan’s ability to host major sporting events.
The PVF chairman emphasized that sports should remain separate from political issues and expressed hope that all invited teams would be able to participate without any complications.
Alongside the championship, Pakistan is also preparing for a busy volleyball calendar in 2026, including the launch of its first National Volleyball League scheduled to take place in Lahore later in July.
The league will feature franchise-based teams, including foreign players, marking a new development in Pakistan’s domestic volleyball structure.
Officials also highlighted recent progress in Pakistan volleyball, noting strong performances by youth teams and upcoming participation in international tournaments, including Asian and world-level competitions.
However, the federation raised concerns over funding and administrative delays affecting training camps and international participation, urging timely support to ensure smooth preparation for upcoming events.
Despite these challenges, officials remain optimistic that Pakistan’s growing volleyball program will continue to expand through international participation and domestic development initiatives.
