DHAKA : The age-group Men's International Handball Federation (IHF) Trophy got underway in a colorful ceremony today (Wednesday) at the Shaheed Captain M. Mansur Ali National Handball Stadium in the capital.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque formally inaugurated the tournament by releasing balloons. The competition is being sponsored by Polar Ice Cream.

The opening ceremony featured a cultural performance by artists of Alif Squad. Earlier, players, coaches, officials and managers from all participating teams entered the venue carrying their respective national flags, while patriotic songs of the participating countries were also played.

Speaking as the chief guest during the opening ceremony, the State Minister expressed satisfaction with the successful organization of the international event and extended a warm welcome to all participating nations.

“I warmly welcome everyone taking part in this tournament. We believe the present government is actively promoting sports diplomacy. Through sports diplomacy and exchanges with neighbouring countries as well as nations across Asia and Europe, we can further enrich our sporting arena and elevate Bangladesh’s position in international sports,” he said.

The Under-18 competition has begun with a match between Maldives and Afghanistan. Bangladesh's opening match in the Under-20 category is scheduled for 7 pm against Afghanistan.

A total of six countries—Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Yemen, Maldives and Afghanistan—are participating in the tournament.

In the U-20 category, the teams have been divided into two groups. The Group A consists of India, Nepal and Yemen, while Group B includes Maldives, Afghanistan and hosts Bangladesh. 

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals on June 13, with the final scheduled for June 14.

The U-18 competition will be played in a round-robin league format, with the team securing the highest number of points emerging as champions.

Among others present at the opening ceremony were Youth and Sports Secretary Mahbub Ul Alam, Bangladesh Handball Federation (BHF) president Major General Abu Mohammad Sarwar Farid, and ots General Secretary Md. Salauddin Ahmed.