Pakistan Olympic Association Reveals National Team for 2026 Asian Beach Games
The Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has officially announced a robust national contingent for the upcoming 6th Asian Beach Games, scheduled to be held in Sanya, China, in 2026. This move underscores Pakistan's dedication to fostering broad-based sporting development and enhancing its international participation in multi-sport events.
Comprehensive Representation Across Multiple Disciplines
Pakistan will compete in a diverse array of disciplines at the Games, including athletics, handball, ju-jitsu, kabaddi, triathlon, and wrestling. The contingent is composed of a well-balanced mix of athletes, coaches, and support staff, aimed at maximizing performance and providing comprehensive backing to the competitors.
Athletics Team Led by Promising Talents
In athletics, the team will be spearheaded by Faiqa Riaz, Tameen Khan, and Sami Ullah, who will compete under the expert guidance of coach Rafique Ahmed. Their participation highlights Pakistan's focus on nurturing emerging talent in track and field events.
Handball Squad Forms Largest Group
The handball squad represents the largest segment of the contingent, featuring players such as Mudassar Shahzad, Kashif Ali, Asif Ali (both senior and junior), Imran Khan, Hazrat Hussain, M Shahid Bashir, Muaaz Ali, Ahmad Hassan Baig, and M Saim. This team will be coached by Azhar Ul Haq, aiming to make a strong impact in the competition.
Ju-Jitsu and Kabaddi Lineups Announced
For ju-jitsu, Shahzaib and Ambreen Tariq will represent Pakistan, accompanied by coach Liaqat Ali. The kabaddi lineup includes Kashif Razzaq, Farhan Ali, Usman Ahmad, Muhammad Zohaib Niaz, Muhammad Jamshaid, and Waqar Ali, with Rahat Maqsood Ali and Badshah Gul serving as coaches, showcasing Pakistan's strength in traditional sports.
Triathlon and Wrestling Teams Set for Action
Pakistan's triathlon hopes will rest on Hamza Asif and Ayesha Waqas, who will train under coach Abdul Ghaffar Gujjar. The wrestling squad features notable names such as M Inam, alongside M Abdullah, M Asad Ullah, and Muhammad Gulzar, with Naveed Afzal acting as team official, emphasizing the country's competitive edge in combat sports.
Support Staff to Ensure Optimal Performance
The support staff includes M Abubakar Ali as Press Attaché, Imran Ahmad Khan and Sana Ali as HQ officials, Dr. Mian Qasim Rehman, physiotherapist M Hashim, and Muqeet Asim M Shah, who will serve as NOC Attaché at the Pakistan Embassy. This team is crucial for providing logistical, medical, and administrative support to the athletes.
POA Expresses Confidence in Team's Potential
The POA has expressed strong confidence in the team's ability to perform well on the international stage. Participation in the Asian Beach Games is viewed as part of a broader strategy to offer athletes valuable exposure and competitive opportunities, reinforcing Pakistan's presence in regional sports.
The Asian Beach Games serve as a significant platform, bringing together top athletes from across the continent. This event provides Pakistan with an excellent opportunity to showcase its emerging talent and strengthen its standing in the sporting community, aligning with national efforts to promote sports development and international engagement.
