Oman U21 handball team gears up for Asian tourney

Oman’s national youth handball team continues its intensive preparations at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher as it gears up for the 19th Asian Men’s Youth Handball Championship, with attention turning to the upcoming draw that will determine the team’s path in the continental competition.
The Asian Handball Federation has announced that the draw ceremony for both the Youth and Junior Asian Championships will take place on Wednesday, May 13, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, with the presence of representatives from participating nations and federation officials.
Oman are set to compete in the 19th Asian Youth Championship, which will be held in Chuzhou, China, from July 15 to 26, 2026. The tournament serves as a qualification pathway to the 2027 IHF Men’s Junior World Championship (U21), with the top four teams earning direct qualification.
Oman have been placed in Pot 2 alongside Saudi Arabia, Iran and Kuwait, while Pot 1 includes China, Japan, South Korea, and Bahrain, highlighting the high level of competition expected in the tournament.
Meanwhile, the 11th Asian Men’s Youth (U19) Championship will take place in Andijan, Uzbekistan, from August 10 to 21, 2026. This tournament will also serve as a qualifier for the Youth World Championship, with four teams advancing to the global stage.
On the preparation front, Oman’s youth team continues its daily training sessions under national coach Yahya al Maashari, who is currently in charge on an interim basis until a new head coach is appointed. A preliminary squad of 22 players is currently in camp, as the technical staff evaluates the players ahead of the final squad selection.
Through this preparation phase, the team aims to enhance physical readiness, strengthen tactical cohesion, and improve overall performance, with the goal of delivering a strong showing that reflects the continued development of Omani handball on the Asian stage.