AQABA, Jordan: Pakistan’s men’s rugby sevens team earned a bronze medal at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy – West & Central 2026 after a strong showing in Aqaba, Jordan, on November 6 and 7.
The national side also had reason to celebrate a standout individual achievement, as Mohsin Raza ended the tournament as the leading try scorer with seven tries. His attacking display proved a major contribution to Pakistan’s successful campaign.
The nine-team event featured regional sides competing for honours and promotion to the 2027 Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series.
Pakistan opened their campaign in commanding fashion, defeating Syria 50-0 and Oman 40-0. The team then produced a determined performance to beat Lebanon 14-10, results which helped establish Pakistan among the leading contenders and set up their eventual bronze-medal finish.
Led by captain Aqib and head coach Kashif Khawaja, Pakistan showed strong teamwork, attacking quality and resolve throughout the competition.
Pakistan Rugby Union President Rizwan Malik congratulated the team, calling the bronze medal 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.
“This tournament has provided valuable international experience and gives us confidence as we prepare for future international competitions.”
Pakistan’s presence in Aqaba was not limited to the playing squad, as Muhammad Ghalib Javed and Muhammad Manan Naseem officiated as referees. Their involvement provided Pakistani match officials with important international exposure and development opportunities.
The bronze-medal performance, along with Mohsin Raza’s leading try-scorer honour, marked a successful international outing for Pakistan Rugby.
The experience gained in Jordan is expected to give the national team useful momentum ahead of future international assignments, including preparations for the SAFF Games.
Pakistan’s campaign in Aqaba also offered an encouraging sign for the growth of rugby in the country, with the performances of players, coaches and match officials likely to inspire further progress on the international stage.
