For the first time in the nation’s history, Pakistan will welcome the Australian volleyball team on May 26, marking a significant milestone in sports diplomacy.
The occasion comes amidst India’s withdrawal from the Central Asian Volleyball League, currently underway in Islamabad since May 11. Despite this setback, the arrival of the Australian team promises to bring a new dimension to the event.
During a press conference held in Islamabad, Chairman of the Pakistan Volleyball Federation, Chaudhry Muhammad Yaqoob, announced the eagerly anticipated visit of the Australian team. Scheduled from May 28 to 30, the Australian squad will engage in thrilling matches against the Pakistani national volleyball team, igniting excitement among sports enthusiasts across the country.
Chaudhry Yaqub highlighted the ongoing Central Asian Volleyball League, featuring Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. Although India’s absence from the league due to internal commitments is regrettable, the event continues to showcase the region’s burgeoning volleyball talent. Despite initial hopes for Indian participation, logistical hurdles prevented their involvement, with the Indian team failing to secure necessary visas.
Anticipation is high as foreign teams are set to arrive in Pakistan on May 9, gearing up for the league’s opening match between Pakistan and Turkmenistan on May 11. The action-packed tournament will see Pakistan face off against Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka, and Iran in subsequent matches, culminating in the grand finale on May 17.
