Australia’s volleyball team arrives in Pakistan for three-match series

ISLAMABAD: In a groundbreaking moment for Pakistan’s sports history, the Australian men’s volleyball team has arrived in Islamabad to play a three-match series.

This marks the first-ever visit of the Australian team to Pakistan.

Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) Chairman Chaudhry Muhammad Yaqoob expressed confidence in the strength of the Pakistani squad as they prepare to face off against Australia. The series promises thrilling competition and showcases the growing prominence of volleyball in the country.

The Australian team, consisting of twenty members, arrived in Islamabad on Sunday. Their visit signifies a significant milestone in bilateral sports relations between the two nations.

Yaqoob invited fans and supporters to attend the matches. Entry is free, and he encouraged everyone to come and cheer for the green shirts, especially after Pakistan’s recent victory in the Central Asian Volleyball League.

Also read: Pakistan reigns supreme in CAVA Nation’s Volleyball League

Highlighting the importance of promoting volleyball nationally and internationally, Yaqoob emphasized the need for government support to enhance resources for the sport’s development.

The Pakistani squad will be led by Murad Jehan, with M Kasheef Naveed serving as vice-captain. Other team members include Waleed Khan, Murad Khan, Aimal Khan, Usman Faryad Ali, Fakhar Ud Din, Afaq Khan, Abdul Zaheer, Musawer Khan, M Hamad, Haider Ali, Nasir Ali, and M Yaseen. The coaching staff includes Argentine Ruben Wolochin as the head coach, along with assistant coaches Saeed Ahmed Khan Sady and Ehsan Iqbal. Brazilian Lucas Rodrigues will serve as the physical trainer, supported by M Ismail Khan, M Sulaiman Amin, and Juan Cobucci as Assistant Scoutmen.

Despite facing a strong team like Australia, Pakistan aims for a stellar performance. The limited resources won’t deter the national team from playing more international matches, Yaqoob said.