Volleyball league in December

By Our Correspondent

September 05, 2024

Pakistani players celebrate as they beat Iran to win the Engro Central Asian Volleyball Championship in Lahore on November 29, 2022. — Screengrab/ Pakistan Volleyball Federation

LAHORE: The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) has announced the launch of an International Volleyball League. The league, in a groundbreaking move to elevate the sport of volleyball in Pakistan, is set to commence on December 15.

The league will feature six teams representing different cities from across Pakistan. Each team will have the opportunity to field two international players. The aim is to provide a platform for local players to showcase their skills and compete against international talent. The league will follow a double-league format, lasting approximately three weeks.

Talking to a group of journalists here Wednesday, Chairman PVF Chaudhry Muhammad Yaqoob expressed his enthusiasm for the league, stating that it will not only promote volleyball at the grassroots level but also provide economic benefits to the players.

Yaqub, a former Inspector General of Police, expressed his optimism about the impact of this league. “The organisation of this league will not only bring out the hidden talent in Pakistan but also provide world-class facilities to these players, enabling them to shine on the international stage,” he said.

“This initiative will open new avenues for local players, allowing them to showcase their skills and improve their economic conditions.” In addition to the league, Yaqub highlighted the achievements of Pakistan’s junior volleyball team, which recently qualified for the Under-18 Volleyball World Cup. He praised the dedication of coach Saeed Ahmed, whose efforts have elevated the team’s performance to international standards.

Pakistan’s volleyball teams, both senior and junior, have shown remarkable progress, with the junior team recently securing a spot in the top five rankings in Asia. Yaqub reiterated the federation’s commitment to nurturing volleyball talent in Pakistan and expressed confidence that the International Volleyball League would play a crucial role in the sport’s development. The league will be conducted annually, providing a regular platform for players to excel.