Nepal’s Men’s Volleyball Team Aims for World Ranking Inclusion and First Medal Since 2017

July 18, Kathmandu – Recently, Nepal’s women’s volleyball team earned inclusion in the FIVB world rankings after competing in the CABA Women’s Volleyball Championship held domestically.

Though the women’s team finished fourth on home soil, their inclusion in the global rankings was seen as a major milestone.

Now, the Nepal men’s volleyball team will participate from July 22 to 29 in the internationally recognized CABA Men’s Volleyball Championship hosted in Islamabad, Pakistan.

This event is not just another tournament for the Nepalese men’s team but an opportunity to be officially listed in the world rankings and to win a medal for the first time since 2017.

While Nepal’s women’s team has achieved several international successes, the senior men’s team has not won a medal since they earned bronze at the 2017 AVC Asian Central Zone Volleyball in the Maldives.

As the Nepal men’s team competes in an FIVB-sanctioned ranking event for the first time, Nepal’s name will resonate more prominently on the global volleyball map.

The championship will feature six countries: hosts Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

“The Volleyball Association wants to see Nepal present on the world volleyball stage. Participating in this event grants us a spot in the world rankings, which is why the association decided to send a team,” said head coach Jagdish Bhatt. “We aim to compete for points and improve our World Ranking position.”

Nepal’s Preparation

A final 12-member squad, captained by Harihjur Thapa, has been announced for the CABA Men’s Volleyball Championship.

Under the guidance of experienced coach Jagdish Prasad Bhatt, the players prepared for over a month domestically before departing for Pakistan on Monday.

Although the team trained at home, they were unable to play any practice matches beforehand.

Coach Bhatt noted, “Lacking practice matches exposed some weaknesses. However, the postponement of the tournament allowed us better training.”

Due to limited time, the final team was declared directly before departure.

Captain Harihjur Thapa expressed confidence in the team, stating that despite short preparation, a good blend of new and experienced players has been assembled and the team is ready.

New Lineup and Youth Influence

This squad features a significant influx of new talent, with half of the 12 players making their senior team debut.

Among them are notable domestic players Himaal Sunari, Rajendra Dhami, Suraj Chunara, and Dipesh Kunwar.

Alongside captain Harihjur, experienced players Vinod Chand, Sunil Bohara, Pehal Gehataraj, Ravin Nagarkoti, and Nripdhwaj Basnet, who have senior team experience, are included. Harihjur and Vinod stand out as the senior-most players.

Sunil, Pehal, Ravin, and Nripdhwaj debuted last year at the CABA Men’s Nations League in Bangladesh. During that event, eight newcomers joined the national team, though Arjun Nepali, Shailendra Yadav, Sujan Sunar, and Santosh Rai are not part of the current squad.

Some experienced players such as Dhan Bahadur Bhatt Kshetri and Dhiroj Kazi Basnet are not in the team, while Saran Samari Kshetri and Safal Bik are also absent due to commitments abroad.

Head coach Jagdish Bhatt highlighted the positive mix of youth and experience, adding that the enthusiasm among new players boosts the team spirit. “With experience and fresh energy combined, we expect strong performances.”

Captain Harihjur Thapa said this tournament is an excellent opportunity for new players and a stepping stone for upcoming generations. “This chance allows fresh talent to progress.”

First-time national team member Himaal Sunari expressed pride and commitment to making the most of this opportunity. “Wearing the national jersey is an honor, and I will strive to showcase what I’ve learned on the court.”

The youthful composition signals a generational transition within Nepal men’s volleyball, with rising stars receiving valuable exposure.

Nepal’s Ambitions

The championship will definitively feature six teams: Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Kazakhstan. Although India and Uzbekistan considered participation, India will not attend, and Uzbekistan’s involvement remains unconfirmed.

According to Nepal Volleyball Association Secretary General Roshan Shrestha, participation will be limited to six teams.

Among these, host Pakistan and Kazakhstan are the strongest contenders. Pakistan ranks among the top 50 globally in the FIVB world rankings and is in Asia’s top 10. The other four teams, including Nepal, are considered more evenly matched.

Therefore, Nepal has a strong chance of winning a medal, a sentiment shared by the captain, coach, and volleyball association.

Coach Jagdish Bhatt remarked, “Teams we have faced many times from Central Asia will be present. We have both winning and losing experiences against them. With a mix of veteran experience and youthful energy, we believe we are close to medaling.”

Captain Harihjur Thapa added that although there are competitive teams, improved blocking could lead Nepal to a podium finish. “Some teams are strong, but if we enhance our blocking, a good result is possible.”

Despite not playing any tune-up matches and lacking clarity on strengths and weaknesses, past weaknesses in blocking have been addressed ahead of the competition.

Volleyball Association President Jitendra Bahadur Chand announced a prize of NPR 300,000 per player if Nepal reaches the final, disclosed during the team’s send-off ceremony.

With a blend of youthful vigor and seasoned players, Nepal aims to break a near decade-long medal drought. Inclusion in the FIVB rankings will also provide international recognition and opportunities to compete in major tournaments, drawing attention to the sport nationally.

Every match and point at the Islamabad venue will be challenging for Nepal volleyball. Facing strong competitors with limited preparation but supported by an experienced coach, the team is set to seize this historic moment.