In a groundbreaking moment for Indian volleyball, the Ahmedabad Defenders, reigning champions of the Prime Volleyball League Season 2, are poised to make history as the first-ever Indian team to participate in the Volleyball Men’s Club World Championships 2023. The vibrant city of Bengaluru is gearing up to host this historic tournament, and the Defenders have unveiled a squad blending experience with emerging talent, ready to leave an enduring mark on the global competition.
The 15-member squad, led by Muthuswamy Appavu, includes Liberos Tamilvanan Srikanth and Ramanathan Ramamoorthy. The attacking lineup features talents such as Australian Max Senica, Amit Gulia, Azmath Ullah, Santosh Sahaya Anthony Raj, and Nandagopal Subramaniyam.
The designated middle blockers—Ashwal Rai, Shameemudheen Ammarambath, Srajan U Shetty, Parth Patel, and Manoj Manjunatha—are complemented by setters Captain Muthuswamy Appavu and Ukkrapandian Mohan. Angamuthu Ramaswamy serves in the universal position.
Also Read: Scheffler’s Stellar Performance Secures Hero World Challenge Title
Ahmedabad Defenders find themselves in Pool A alongside reigning champions Sir Sicoma Perugia from Italy and Brazil’s Minas Tênis Clube (Itambé Minas). Pool B includes Halkbank Spor Kulübü from Turkey, Sada Cruzeiro Volei from Brazil, and Japan’s Suntory Sunbirds. The Defenders will kick off their campaign on December 6th against Minas Tênis Clube (Itambé Minas).
Expressing confidence, head coach Dakshinamoorthy Sundaresan highlighted the team’s talent and comprehensive preparation, focusing on physical, technical, and tactical aspects. He sees this as a golden opportunity to showcase Indian volleyball to the world, anticipating a stellar performance.
The Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 will be broadcast live in India on Sony Sports Network, including Sony Ten 1 & Sony Ten 3 channels, with global coverage on Volleyball World.
–IANS
