Pakistan Rugby Union’s secretary Salman Sheikh confirmed that the country is set to host the Asia Rugby Men Division 1 in July.
Pakistan will play their matches against the UAE on July 4 and 8, Sheikh shared in a press conference today in Lahore.
The winner will advance to the Asia Rugby Championship which is scheduled for next year. Hong Kong, China, South Korea, and Malaysia have already qualified for the Asian event.
The Asian Rugby Championship will be a road to Rugby World Cup qualification.
Pakistan team’s head coach Gert Mulder said: “It is an honour to continue leading the Pakistan National Rugby Team as we embark on this new chapter in our journey. The promotion to Asian Rugby Championship Division 1 is a testament to the team’s hard work and progress. While the competition will undoubtedly be tougher, I have full faith in our players’ capabilities. We will face each challenge head-on and strive to make our mark in the elite division of Asian rugby.”
“The promotion in 2022 to the Division I Asia Cup Championship is a testament to the team’s hard work and progress. While the 2023 competition will undoubtedly be much tougher, I have full confidence in the players’ abilities. We will take on every challenge head-on and strive to make our mark in the elite division of Asian rugby.
“Finally, I am personally better prepared because the environment is familiar to me, and I am aware of the challenges and what it takes to overcome them. I am grateful and humbled by the support and trust shown by the selectors, players, coaching staff members, management, and every role player within the Pakistan Rugby Union.”
It must be noted here that under Mulder, Pakistan won Asian Rugby Division II Tournament in 2022 after defeating Thailand.
Source: Geosuper