The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Cox's Bazar

Abahani Limited made a good start in the women's section of the International Beach Volleyball Tournament beating Jawlakhel Sports Club of Nepal by 2-0 sets in the opening match at Laboni Point of this resort town.

In the men's section, an Indian team defeated Bangladesh Power Development Board, also by 2-0 sets.

Earlier, Army Chief and National Sports Council (NSC) Chairman General Moeen U Ahmed formally inaugurated the competition as chief guest.

Deputy commissioner of Cox's Bazar Sajjadul Hasan, Bangladesh Volleyball Federation president Golam Quddus Chowdhury and Federation officials were present on the occasion.

Speaking briefly at the inaugural function, Gen Moeen said volleyball is the most popular game in the world after football. "We've to arrange more tournaments to further popularise the game in the country," he added.

Some 15 teams -- eight men's and seven women's -- are participating in the competition.

Participating men's team: India, Nepal Police, Bangladesh Police, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Air Force, Bangladesh Rifles, PDB and Cox's Bazar Eleven.

Women's team: Indonesia, India, Jawlakhel Sports Club (Nepal), Bangladesh Police, Abahani Limited, SNT and Mitali Sangha.