AQABA, Jordan: Pakistan’s men’s rugby sevens team won the bronze medal at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy – West & Central 2026 after an impressive campaign in Aqaba, Jordan, held on November 6 and 7.
Pakistan also had an individual honour to celebrate as Mohsin Raza finished as the tournament’s leading try scorer with seven tries, underlining his attacking contribution to the national side’s successful outing.
The nine-team competition featured regional sides competing for honours and promotion to the 2027 Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series.
Pakistan made a strong start to the tournament, registering convincing victories against Syria and Oman. The national side defeated Syria 50-0 and then beat Oman 40-0 before overcoming Lebanon 14-10 in a closely contested match. These results helped establish Pakistan as strong contenders and paved the way for their bronze-medal finish.
Led by captain Aqib and head coach Kashif Khawaja, Pakistan showed teamwork, attacking strength and determination throughout the competition.
Pakistan Rugby Union President Rizwan Malik congratulated the team, saying the bronze medal was a proud moment for Pakistan Rugby.
“Winning bronze is a proud moment for Pakistan Rugby and a reward for the hard work, dedication and commitment of our players and coaching staff. Mohsin Raza finishing as the tournament’s top try scorer with seven tries makes this achievement even more special,” he said.
“We are equally proud of Muhammad Ghalib Javed and Muhammad Manan Naseem for representing Pakistan as referees. Developing our players, coaches and match officials together is essential to strengthening Pakistan Rugby,” Rizwan Malik added.
“This tournament has provided valuable international experience and gives us confidence as we prepare for future international competitions,” he said.
Pakistan’s representation in Aqaba was not limited to the playing squad, as Muhammad Ghalib Javed and Muhammad Manan Naseem officiated as referees. Their participation provided Pakistani match officials with international exposure and development opportunities.
The bronze-medal finish, along with Mohsin Raza’s performance as the top try scorer, marked a successful international campaign for Pakistan Rugby.
The experience gained in Jordan is expected to provide momentum for the national team as it looks ahead to upcoming international competitions, including preparations for the SAFF Games.
Pakistan’s performance in Aqaba is being seen as an encouraging sign for the continued growth of rugby in the country, with the campaign offering inspiration for young players, coaches and match officials seeking to make their mark internationally.
