Pakistan handball team departs for 6th Asian Beach Games

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Apr, 2026) Pakistan’s Handball team departed late Saturday as the first batch of the national contingent for the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, while the Kabaddi squad will follow on Monday.

The 38-member Pakistani contingent is scheduled to compete in five disciplines — athletics, handball, ju-jitsu, kabaddi and wrestling in the multi-sport event running from April 22 to 30.

Led by coach Azhar-ul-Haq, the squad comprises experienced players: Mudassar Shahzad, Kashif Ali, Asif Ali Sr, Asif Ali Jr, Imran Khan, Hazrat Hussain, Shahid Bashir, Muaaz Ali, Ahmad Hassan Baig and Mohammad Saim. Pakistan’s beach handball side has a strong history at the Asian Beach Games and will be aiming for another impressive showing.

Meanwhile, the Kabaddi team, defending gold medalists from the previous edition, is also in fine fettle. Captained by Kashif Razzaq, the squad includes Farhan Ali, Usman Ahmad, Muhammad Zohaib Niaz, Muhammad Jamshaid and Waqar Ali. Rahat Maqsood Ali and Badshah Gul are the coaches.

Pakistan sports board has funded 30 members of the contingent, while the rest of the members have been supported by National Sports Federations and the Pakistan Olympic Association.

The Asian Beach Games offer Pakistani athletes an important platform to gain international exposure and compete against top teams from across the continent.