ISLAMABAD: In a bold and ambitious push onto the world stage, the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) has unveiled its roadmap to break into the top 32 global rankings — a move aimed at securing the national team’s place among elite international contenders and unlocking doors to prestigious tournaments worldwide.
At a spirited press conference in the capital, PVF Chairman Chaudhry Mohammad Yaqoob, joined by coaches and captains of the senior, U19, and U16 teams, detailed a dynamic vision — elevating Pakistan into the global volleyball elite within the next year.
“We’re already among the world’s top Under-19 teams, having qualified for the World Championship. Our next mission is to accelerate the rise of our senior team. Retaining our CAVA title and a strong performance in the Nations Cup could push us into the global top 32,” Yaqoob said.
In a landmark development, Pakistan will host the Russian national volleyball team for a three-match series in late June. The fixtures will be held at POF in Wah, as the Liaquat Gymnasium in Islamabad remains unequipped with air conditioning — underscoring the need for infrastructure upgrades amid rising ambitions.
The PVF will be spending Rs50 million in the coming months on five key international tours — covering the senior, U19, and U16 squads. “With travel costs surging past Rs10 million per tour, this investment reflects our commitment to international exposure,” said Yaqoob.
He credited Allied Bank, the government, and other partners for their vital support. Rehman Mohammadi, the Iranian coach spearheading the national team, expressed strong faith in Pakistan’s potential: “We have over 10 players competing in foreign leagues. They’ve got the exposure and quality to upset the world’s best. That’s what makes Pakistan one of Asia’s most dangerous sides.”
National captain Murad Jehan, who plays professionally in Bahrain, applauded PVF’s resolve: “Even with limited resources, the PVF is prioritizing youth development. We’ve seen how foreign clubs are funded professionally — Pakistan is heading in the right direction.”
National Under-19 Coach Mohammad Saeed shared his excitement about Pakistan’s debut at the FIVB U19 World Championship, set to take place from July 24 to August 3, 2025, in Tashkent.
“This marks the first time a Pakistan team will play in a world-level championship. It’s a moment of pride and we’re ready to leave a mark.”
Notably, Pakistan’s women’s team will also feature at the Islamic Solidarity Games, marking a significant milestone in the PVF’s commitment to developing women’s volleyball alongside the men’s game.
From grassroots to global stages, PVF’s comprehensive strategy is setting the stage for a volleyball revolution in Pakistan. With world-class talent, determined leadership, and rising international opportunities, the dream of global recognition is no longer out of reach-it is within striking distance.
Yaqoob outlined Pakistan’s volleyball commitments in 2025: Senior Men’s Team: CAVA Nations League: May 29 – June 4 in Fergana, Uzbekistan; AVC Men’s Nations Cup: June 17 – 24 in Bahrain; 6th Islamic Solidarity Games: November 7 – 21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Under-19 Men’s Team: FIVB U19 World Championship: July 24 – August 3 in Uzbekistan; 3rd Asian Youth Games: October 22 – 31 in Bahrain. Under-16 Men’s Team: CAVA U16 Championship: June 10 – 16 in Uzbekistan; Asian U16 Championship: July 20 – 27 in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.
