CAVA relocates Volleyball championship amid Pak-Ind tension
The Central Asia Volleyball Association (CAVA) has relocated its Men's Nations League championship from Pakistan to Uzbekistan after India cited security concerns and withdrew from the event.
The decision was finalised during CAVA's Annual General Meeting held in Nepal on April 25, following the April 22 incident in Pahalgam which raised regional safety concerns.
Originally set to take place in Islamabad, the tournament was poised to be a major moment for Pakistan's volleyball development.
However, with India's government revoking its No Objection Certificate (NOC) for participation, and other member nations expressing similar reservations, CAVA decided to shift the tournament to ensure smooth conduct.
A CAVA official confirmed that the dates— May 29 to June 4 2025—will remain unchanged, with Tashkent, Uzbekistan now likely to host all matches.
Following the venue change, India has confirmed its participation.
While Pakistan retains its place in the competition alongside Iran, India, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan, the move is a blow to its ambitions of becoming a reliable host for international volleyball events.
Earlier, India has withdrawn from the upcoming Central Asian Volleyball Championship in Islamabad, citing political tensions following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, IIOJK, which killed 26 people.
The Volleyball Federation of India had earlier confirmed a 30-member squad, but the Union Sports Ministry advised a pullout.
Despite India's exit, the May 29–June 4 tournament will proceed with four teams, including Pakistan and Iran.
Organisers say India's absence won't significantly affect competition, noting the team's modest past performances.
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