Victory
ISLAMABAD
Pakistan emerged as the undisputed champions of the Zong 5G Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026, defeating Bangladesh in a commanding straight-set victory in the championship final here at the Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex.
The final day’s action began with the 3rd Place Match between Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan, producing another exciting five-set encounter. Sri Lanka made a strong start by taking the opening set before Uzbekistan responded to level the match.
The two teams continued exchanging sets in a thrilling contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
In the decisive fifth set, Sri Lanka displayed remarkable composure and determination to seal the victory and secure the Bronze Medal. Sri Lanka defeated Uzbekistan 3–2 (25–19, 22–25, 25–23, 19–25, 15–11).
The victory earned Sri Lanka a well-deserved third-place finish, while Uzbekistan concluded the championship in fourth position.
The championship final featured the tournament’s two best-performing teams as unbeaten Pakistan faced Bangladesh before a packed Liaquat Gymnasium, where thousands of passionate volleyball fans created a spectacular atmosphere.
Pakistan entered the final with an unbeaten record and continued its outstanding form by dominating every department of the game.
The Green Shirts combined powerful serving, disciplined blocking, quick attacks, and outstanding defense to keep Bangladesh under constant pressure.
Pakistan claimed the opening set 25–20, setting the tone for the match with aggressive attacking volleyball.
The hosts elevated their performance in the second set, producing exceptional teamwork and tactical discipline to comfortably win 25–16, moving within one set of the championship.
Bangladesh attempted to mount a comeback in the third set, but Pakistan remained composed and controlled the crucial points before sealing a convincing 25–20 victory to lift the championship trophy in front of an ecstatic home crowd.
Pakistan defeated Bangladesh 3–0 (25–20, 25–16, 25–20).
The victory completed a perfect tournament for Pakistan, as the national team won all seven matches without dropping a single set, demonstrating complete dominance throughout the championship.
Final Championship Rankings: Gold Medal: Pakistan; Silver Medal: Bangladesh; Bronze Medal: Sri Lanka; 4th Place: Uzbekistan; 5th Place: Kazakhstan; 6th Place: Nepal.
The championship’s outstanding individual performers were recognized during the closing ceremony.
Dream Team 2026: Outside Hitter: Murad Jehan (Pakistan) – No. 15; Outside Hitter: Tharusha Chamath Dilshan Weerappulige (Sri Lanka) – No. 5; Middle Blocker: Musawer Khan (Pakistan) – No. 18; Middle Blocker: Md Naieem Hossen (Bangladesh) – No. 6; Setter: Al Amin MD (Bangladesh) – No. 4; Opposite Player: Murad Khan (Pakistan) – No. 11; Libero: Md Shaon Ali (Bangladesh) – No. 17; Most Valuable Player (MVP): Murad Jehan (Pakistan) – No. 15.
Chairman Pakistan Volleyball Federation, Ch. Muhammad Yaqoob, congratulated the national team on winning the championship.
He said, “On behalf of the Pakistan Volleyball Federation, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our players, coaching staff, officials, and the entire volleyball family on winning the ZONG 5G CAVA Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026. This historic triumph reflects the dedication, discipline, and tireless efforts of our players and coaches.”
He further added, “Hosting and winning this prestigious championship is a proud moment for Pakistan. I thank the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA), all participating teams, our sponsors, government institutions, volunteers, technical officials, media representatives, and the passionate fans whose support made this championship a resounding success.”
