Pakistan clinch Commonwealth Beach Handball Championship

Pakistan was crowned champions of the Commonwealth Beach Handball Championship after a commanding 2-0 victory over Sri Lanka in the final held in the Maldives.

In a dominant display Pakistan clinched both sets with scores of 26-18 and 28-18 showcasing their prowess in both attack and defense to seal a comfortable win and secure the title.

The tournament featured six teams with Maldives securing third place, Bangladesh finishing fourth and India and South Africa ending fifth and sixth respectively.

Under the leadership of captain Tahir Ali, Pakistan remained unbeaten throughout the competition, underlining their superiority in the format.

Their campaign began with a solid 2-0 win over India. That was followed by another 2-0 triumph over Sri Lanka, before a hard-fought 2-1 victory over hosts Maldives and 2-0 victory over Bangladesh to secure a semi-final berth.

In the semi-finals Pakistan once again displayed their class, defeating Bangladesh 2-0 with set scores of 22-17 and 28-6 to book their place in the final.

Pakistan Handball Federation’s (PHF) president Mohammad Shafiq expressed his satisfaction over the team's performance.

“We had made thorough preparations and achieved the results we were aiming for,” Shafiq told Nukta.

“The training camp was productive, the players were in great shape, and their performance throughout the tournament was exceptional. We expected India to pose a challenge but our team delivered a clean sweep,” he added.

In a moment of personal achievement and national pride, Tahir Ali announced his retirement from international beach handball after leading Pakistan to the championship title.

“He had been chasing a major title throughout his career and finally achieved it. I am very happy for him. He did a commendable job for the country,” said Shafiq, who also serves as the Secretary General of the Asian Handball Federation (AHF).

Looking ahead Pakistan's next beach handball assignment will be at the Asian Beach Games scheduled to be held in China in April next year. However, participation will depend on clearance and support from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB).

“It now depends on the PSB as the Board will be responsible for sending the teams. Let’s see what decision is made,” Shafiq noted.

Pakistan’s triumph in the Maldives not only highlights their growing dominance in regional beach handball but also sets the stage for a strong showing at future international events.