The CAVA Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026 will begin tomorrow (Wednesday) in Islamabad, with six teams competing for the regional title.
The participating teams are Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
It is important to note, Indian team withdrew from the event.
A trophy unveiling ceremony was held ahead of the tournament, attended by the captains of the visiting teams.
Speaking at the ceremony, Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) Chairman Chaudhry Yaqoob said Pakistan has established itself as a safe and successful host of international sporting events.
Pakistan will open its campaign against Sri Lanka on the first day of the championship.
The opening day’s schedule also features Kazakhstan taking on Nepal, while Uzbekistan will face Bangladesh.
Commenting on India’s withdrawal from the tournament, Chaudhry Yaqoob described the decision as surprising and unjustified.
He said India pulled out at the last moment despite receiving all required visa clearances and security guarantees from Pakistan.
He added that the government had made comprehensive security arrangements for the Indian team and stressed that Pakistan does not mix politics with sports.
However, he alleged that India continues to politicise sporting events unnecessarily.
The PVF chairman also expressed disappointment over the facilities at Islamabad’s Liaquat Gymnasium.
He recalled that Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal had announced the venue’s upgradation during the previous international event, but said air-conditioning could not be installed before the start of the championship despite that commitment.
