Spikers face Pakistan in semis today

Bangladesh could confirm their first medal of the 13th Asian Games today when the men’s volleyball team take on Pakistan in one of the two semifinals at the Tripureshwar Covered Hall in Kathmandu.

Bangladesh have never won a medal in the volleyball event of the Games, but the team led by Horoshit Biswas have reached the semifinals, thanks to a five-set win over Nepal in their first match. Even though they lost to defending champions India in 3-0 sets, the Bangladesh captain is hoping for a good outcome against last edition’s bronze medal winners.

“We came here with the target of reaching the semifinals. Now that we are through, anything can happen. Pakistan are a very strong side, but we are confident of putting up a fight. We’ll have to be at our best,” said the Bangladesh captain.

Pakistan beat last edition’s beaten finalists Sri Lanka to emerge as group champions. Bangladesh coach Alipour Arozi conceded that Pakistan are way above Bangladesh in strength, but he did not rule out the possibility of an upset.

“India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are very strong, not only in this region but also in Asian volleyball. They have players with good height and physique, but we are very happy with the way we beat Nepal against the odds in front of their home crowd,” the Iranian coach said.