Pakistan defeat Bangladesh in final to lift CAVA volleyball title in style

Staff Report

ISLAMABAD: Maintaining their superb run, Pakistan emerged champions of the Central Asian Volleyball Association Championship on Wednesday as they outgunned Bangladesh in straight sets in the final here at the Liaquat Gymnasium of the Pakistan Sports Complex. Pakistan remained unbeaten throughout the six-nation event before winning the decider. Kazakhstan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan were the other participating nations. Displaying powerful serving, disciplined blocking, quick attacks and outstanding defe­nce, Pakistan kept Bangladesh under constant pressure throughout the match. After claiming the opening set 25-20, the hosts elevated their performance in the second set, producing exceptional teamwork and tactical discipline to comfortably win it 25-16. Bangladesh attempted to launch a comeback in the third set but Pakistan retained control before sealing it 25-20 to lift the title in front of an ecstatic crowd. The victory completed a perfect tournament for Pakistan who clinched all seven matches without dropping a single set.

Pakistan, after this well-deserved victory, jumped eight spots to 38 in the FIVB world rankings, and are now the sixth best team in Asia behind Japan, Iran, Qatar, Korea and China. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka won the bronze medal after edging out Uzbekistan 25-19, 22-25, 25-23, 19-25, 15-11 in a thrilling third-position match. Kazakhstan earned fifth place in the event while Nepal ended last. Pakistan Volleyball Feder­ation chairman Chaudhry Mohammad Yaqoob congratulated the national team on winning the championship. “On behalf of the federation, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our players, coaching staff, officials, and the entire volleyball family on winning the CAVA Volleyball Cham­pionship,” the PVF chief said. “This historic triumph reflects the dedication, discipline, and tireless efforts of our players and coaches. Hosting and [then] winning this prestigious championship is a proud moment for Pakistan. I sincerely thank the Central Asian Volleyball Association, all participating teams, our sponsors, government institutions, volunteers, technical officials, media representatives, and the fans whose support made this championship a resounding success,” he added. In his comments, PVF president Sohail Khawar Mir lauded Pakistan for clinching the title in style. “Winning the championship without losing a single set is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to the exceptional talent, preparation and commitment of our players and coaching staff. The entire nation is proud of this remarkable performance,” Sohail said. He continued, “I congratulate Bangladesh on an excellent tournament and all [other] participating nations for contributing to a highly competitive and successful championship. “This event has strengthened volleyball in the Central Asian region and further enhanced Pakistan’s reputation as an outstanding host of international sporting events.”