Qatar men’s rugby team will start their campaign against Lebanon in the West Asia Rugby Championship for men and women which will be held from October 7 to 10 at the Aspire Academy.
The tournament for men and women features seven teams and will be played on a single group format. The Qatar women’s team will take on Iraq in the first match. The UAE, Syria, Iran and Palestine are the other participating teams.
Speaking at the draw ceremony Qatar Rugby, Hockey and Cricket Federation (QRHCF) President Yousef Jeham al-Kuwari, said the event would be another example of Qatar’s outstanding organising ability in challenging times.
“Despite the uncertain and challenging situation of the pandemic, Qatar has efficiently hosted international sports events and we’re keen to do the same with the West Asia Rugby Championship. Strict health protocols, according to the recommendations of the Ministry of Public Health, will be in place to ensure a safe tournament,” he said.
President of Asia Rugby, the continent’s governing body for the sport, Qais Abdullah al-Dhali, said, “We trust the capabilities of the Qatar Rugby Federation and are confident in the success of the tournament.”
He also said number of participating members in the AFC is increasing and the Omani Federation will be one of the new federations that will join during the next congress.”
Qatar is the first Arab and Gulf country to host the event, which is the first rugby tournament to be held in Asia after to the Covid-19 crisis.
Secretary-General of QRHCF and Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the tournament Abdullah Aman al-Khater said the preparations to host the event is on track and looked forward to host a best edition of this tournament.
Executive Director of Venues and Federations at Aspire Logistics, Ahmed Mohamed al-Hassan, said, “Aspire is proud to organise the event as it’s a major tournament and we’re sure it will draw plenty of interest from fans across the region.”
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