Inauguration of CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026 Marks Historic Event in India

The CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026 has made its debut in India, hosted at KIIT Stadium in Bhubaneswar. This international tournament features eight teams from seven countries, including two from India. The event aims to promote volleyball and support athletes, with hopes of qualifying for the 2027 AVC Champions League. The inaugural match saw Foolad Sirjan from Iran triumph over India's Telugu Black Hawks. Discover more about this historic event and its significance for Indian volleyball.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 16, 2026, 00:37 IST

Historic Launch of CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026

The 'CAVA Men's Volleyball League 2026' was officially launched at the KIIT Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on November 16, marking a significant milestone as it is the first time this international tournament is being held in India.

Mohamed Latheef, the President of the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA), served as the chief guest for the inauguration. 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.

This grand event, organized by the Odisha Volleyball Association (OVA) and KIIT, runs from November 15 to 22 at the KIIT Campus-13 Multipurpose Indoor Stadium, 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 officials.

During the opening ceremony, Achyuta Samanta emphasized KIIT's dedication to promoting volleyball and supporting athletes. He expressed his vision of elevating the sport through collaboration with FIVB and CAVA, alongside plans to develop a dedicated sports city within the KIIT campus.

Chief Guest Mohamed Latheef praised Dr. Samanta for his 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. Latheef encouraged players to perform at their best while maintaining sportsmanship and respect, and he 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 claimed the inaugural victory by defeating 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 second match featured a thrilling contest between Indian teams Bengaluru Torpedoes and Mumbai Meteors.