pakistan face sri
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Pakistan to face Sri Lanka in CAVA opener

ByJustpaste.in

Hosts Pakistan will launch their campaign against Sri Lanka in the opening match of the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Men’s Volleyball Championship at the Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex, following India’s last-minute withdrawal from the tournament.
​The regional showpiece brings together teams from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan. The tournament schedule features three matches on the opening day: host nation Pakistan takes on Sri Lanka in the curtain-raiser, followed by Kazakhstan facing Nepal, and Uzbekistan taking on Bangladesh.
​Addressing the media following the championship’s official trophy unveiling ceremony, Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) Chairman Chaudhry Mohammad Yaqoob expressed disappointment over India’s decision to pull out of the competition at the eleventh hour. He explained that the PVF, in coordination with the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), had completed all required documentation, secured necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs), and guaranteed comprehensive security measures specifically requested by the Indian delegation.
​Highlighting the tournament’s significance despite the withdrawal, Yaqoob emphasized that the event remains one of the largest international volleyball spectacles hosted in the country, demonstrating Pakistan’s growing capacity to stage high-profile sports competitions safely and efficiently:
​”We are surprised by India’s withdrawal after all necessary arrangements had been completed. At their request, the federation secured all required NOCs and comprehensive security guarantees to ensure the Indian team’s safe participation. Despite their absence, this championship remains a major international event that showcases Pakistan’s readiness to host world-class sports.”

​Pakistan enters the championship with strong momentum following encouraging performances in recent international competitions. Team officials and coaches believe the players are well-prepared to make full use of home-court advantage and familiar conditions as they pursue the regional title.
​The PVF extended a warm welcome to all visiting athletes, delegates, and officials, reassuring them that thorough arrangements have been implemented to guarantee a smooth and memorable tournament. Running through July 29, the championship aims to foster regional sportsmanship, elevate competitive standards, and provide local fans with top-tier international volleyball action.

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