Inauguration of CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026 at KIIT Stadium, Odisha

The CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026 has officially launched at KIIT Stadium in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant milestone as the first international volleyball tournament hosted in India. With participation from eight teams across seven nations, including two from India, the event promises thrilling matches and showcases the commitment to developing volleyball in the region. Key figures, including CAVA President Mohamed Latheef and KIIT Founder Achyuta Samanta, highlighted the importance of sportsmanship and excellence. The tournament runs from November 15 to 22, with hopes of qualifying for the 2027 AVC Champions League. Read on for more details about this exciting event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 16, 2026, 00:38 IST

CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026 Kicks Off

The 'CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026' officially commenced at the KIIT Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on November 16. This marks the inaugural hosting of this prestigious international tournament in India. The event was inaugurated by Mohamed Latheef, President of the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA), who attended as the chief guest. He was joined by notable figures including Achyuta Samanta, the Founder of KIIT and KISS, Tuhin Mishra, Managing Director and Co-founder of Baseline Ventures, Arachchilage Shanthasiri Nalaka, CAVA General Secretary, and other dignitaries from KIIT.

Scheduled from November 15 to 22 at the KIIT Campus-13 Multipurpose Indoor Stadium, this significant event is organized by the Odisha Volleyball Association (OVA) in collaboration with KIIT, under the auspices of FIVB and CAVA. The championship features eight teams representing seven countries, including two from India, alongside teams from Iran, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and the Maldives, totaling over 200 players, referees, and international delegates.

During the opening ceremony, Achyuta Samanta emphasized KIIT's dedication to advancing volleyball and supporting athletes. He expressed his vision of elevating the sport through partnerships with FIVB and CAVA, alongside plans to develop a dedicated sports city within the KIIT campus. Chief Guest Mohamed Latheef praised Dr. Samanta's humanitarian efforts and significant contributions to sports. He expressed joy over KIIT and KISS being recognized by FIVB as a Centre of Excellence for volleyball and beach volleyball, encouraging players to perform at their best while maintaining sportsmanship and respect. Latheef also expressed hope that the top team from this league would qualify for the 2027 AVC Champions League.

On the first day of matches, Foolad Sirjan from Iran triumphed over India's Telugu Black Hawks with a score of 3–1, with set scores of 25–16, 27–29, 25–09, and 25–20. The day's second match featured a thrilling contest between Indian franchises Bengaluru Torpedoes and Mumbai Meteors.