FAISALABAD - Pakistan has won the men’s International Handball trophy by defeating Yemen here at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad.
Earlier in the semi-finals of the event, Pakistan carved out 39-22 victory against Nepal. In the women section, Bangladesh proved too hot for Pakistan as the former defeated the latter 33-23.
At the prize distribution ceremony, former law minister Rana Sanaullah, UAF vice chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan, DCO Noorul Amin Mengal, MNA Haji Akram Ansari, Pakistan Handball Federation president Haji Shafique, UAF Sports Board chairman Dr M Amjad, Syed M Abid Qadri and other notables were the guests of honour.
Six countries including Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Nepal, Maldives, Yemen and Pakistan participated in the event which was arranged by International Handball Federation (IHF) in collaboration with University of Agriculture Faisalabad. It was the largest handball tournament in the history of the country.
Talking to the media, Rana Sanullah said: “Such events create softer image of the country across the world. The government is making all-out efforts to promote sports activities in the county. Though the country is facing numerous challenges yet we are striving to address the different issues and provide relieves to the people.”
UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan said that it was matter of concern that the sports activities were declining among the youth. He said the UAF had the history of hosting the international events including tent pegging, handball, etc. “State-of-the-art sports facilities are being provided at the campus to flourish.”