Pakistan to face Sri Lanka in CAVA opener
Home India pull out at the eleventh hour despite security assurances Pakistan will kick off its campaign against Sri Lanka in the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026 starting Wednesday at the Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad, following India’s last-minute withdrawal from the tournament despite receiving comprehensive security assurances. Speaking to the media after the championship’s trophy unveiling ceremony, Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) Chairman Chaudhry Mohammad Yaqoob expressed disappointment over India’s decision to pull out of the event. “We are surprised by India’s withdrawal after all necessary arrangements had been completed. At their request, the federation, in coordination with the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) and other relevant government departments, secured all required NOCs and comprehensive security guarantees to ensure the Indian team’s safe participation in Islamabad,” he said.
Published: July 22, 2026 3:51 pm
Source: The Express Tribune — Read original