ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will begin their campaign against Sri Lanka in the opening match of the CAVA Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026 at the Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad, on Wednesday.
The regional championship will run from July 22 to 29 and feature six teams following India’s last-minute withdrawal despite previously receiving the required security clearance and assurances for participation.
Speaking after the trophy unveiling ceremony, Pakistan Volleyball Federation Chairman Chaudhry Mohammad Yaqoob expressed disappointment over India’s decision, saying extensive arrangements had already been completed to facilitate the visiting team.
“We are surprised by India’s withdrawal after all necessary arrangements had been completed,” Yaqoob said.
He said the federation, in coordination with the Pakistan Sports Board, the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination and other government departments, had secured the necessary no-objection certificates and comprehensive security guarantees at India’s request.
The government had earlier issued an NOC clearing the Indian men’s volleyball team to participate in the championship in Islamabad.
Yaqoob said the PVF had taken up the late withdrawal with the Central Asian Volleyball Association and planned to approach other relevant international bodies over the financial and organisational losses caused by the decision.
Despite India’s absence, the PVF chairman said the championship remained one of the most significant international volleyball events hosted by Pakistan and reflected the country’s growing ability to stage major regional competitions.
The tournament is being organised by the Pakistan Volleyball Federation under the auspices of the Central Asian Volleyball Association.
Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan will compete in the eight-day championship.
Three matches are scheduled for the opening day. Hosts Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in the curtain-raiser, Kazakhstan will take on Nepal and Uzbekistan will meet Bangladesh.
The Pakistan Volleyball Federation said comprehensive arrangements had been made for the participating teams, officials and delegates to ensure the smooth conduct of the championship.
The federation described the event as an opportunity to promote volleyball, regional friendship and sporting cooperation while providing Pakistan’s national team with valuable competition against leading sides from Central and South Asia.
The tournament will conclude on July 29 at the Liaquat Gymnasium.
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