Pakistan’s next generation of volleyball talent is ready to test itself against the world’s best, as the national U19 team will depart for Tashkent, Uzbekistan, today to participate in the FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championship, which runs from July 24 to August 3.
This will mark Pakistan’s first entry into the global youth volleyball event, where they will face off against some of the most formidable sides in junior volleyball.
“This is a proud moment for Pakistan Volleyball, as our youth team competes at the highest level,” read a statement from the Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF). “It reflects the nation’s steady progress in the sport and the dedication of those who’ve built this program from the ground up.”
The 2025 FIVB U19 World Championship will see 24 national teams from across the world competing for glory, with Algeria, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Colombia, Cuba, Egypt, Finland, France, Iran, Italy, Japan, Korea, Poland, Puerto Rico, Spain, Tunisia, Türkiye, U.S.A., and Uzbekistan joining Pakistan.
The tournament format is structured with the preliminary phase scheduled from July 24 to 29, where teams will compete in group stages. The knockout rounds, including the 1/8 Finals and classification playoffs, will be played from July 30 to August 3. The bronze and gold medal matches will decide the podium on the tournament’s final day, August 3.
Pakistan has been placed in Pool A alongside Uzbekistan, Belgium, Argentina, Puerto Rico, and Türkiye. The team will face Belgium in their first game on July 24.
Muhammad Yahya has been chosen to lead Pakistan at the FIVB U19 World Championship, while the squad also includes Tayyab Khan, Jabran, Muhammad Hassan, Muhammad Saud, Muhtad Ali Shah, Ajmal Junaid, Muhammad Irfan, Javed Ahmad, Talal Ahmad, Abu Bakar Siddique, and Khizar Hayat.
Pakistan’s campaign in Tashkent represents not just an international appearance, but a coming-of-age moment for youth volleyball in the country, which has made waves on the continental scene in recent months.
With rising support, structured training, and international exposure, Pakistan will be hoping for strong performances and perhaps a few upsets as they look to inspire the next wave of volleyball talent back home.
