Bahrain face demanding volleyball schedule

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s senior men’s volleyball team face a demanding schedule at the fourth GCC Games in Doha, with a string of fixtures that will immediately test their medal ambitions.

The volleyball draw took place on Thursday at Lusail Hall at the Qatar Olympic Committee headquarters, alongside the handball competition.

Representatives from all six GCC nations were present, with the final schedule confirmed yesterday following a series of adjustments.

Bahrain open their campaign against Oman on May 16, before quickly turning around to face the United Arab Emirates the following day. After a rest day, they resume against Kuwait on May 19, followed by a key clash with hosts Qatar on May 20. They close their group stage against Saudi Arabia.

The nationals arrive as one of the tournament’s leading contenders, underpinned by strong recent form. Bahrain claimed silver at the previous edition in Kuwait City in 2022 and, before that, secured consecutive gold medals in Dammam and Bahrain, reinforcing their status as a consistent force in regional volleyball.

Much of that core remains intact. The squad retains its established group of Mohamed Anan, Hassan Al Warqaa, Mohamed Yaqoob, Ali Ebrahim, Mahmood Abdulwahid, Mohammed Jassim, and Sayed Hashim Isa, providing continuity, stability, and cohesion across the team.

That continuity is further boosted by the return of captain Nasser Anan, who rejoins the side after a disciplinary suspension. His presence adds experience and leadership at a key moment in the campaign.

The team are led by French head coach Arnaud Josserand, with Bahrain continuing under an international coaching structure aimed at maintaining strong regional results.

The GCC Games feature 19 sports staged across multiple venues in Doha, with volleyball and handball among the headline team competitions. Matches will be spread across 10 venues, including Aspire Dome, Qatar Sports Club, Khalifa International Tennis, Squash and Badminton Complex, Lusail Shooting Range, and Al Gharafa Sports Club.

Beyond the GCC Games, Bahrain will also use the tournament as preparation for the 2026 AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup in India, which begins on June 20. Josserand’s side enter that competition as reigning champions, having won the 2025 title.