Tianjin: The Thai women's volleyball team is set to face Australia in their opening match of the 2026 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship at the Tianjin Olympic Center Gymnasium, People's Republic of China. Coach Kiattipong Ratchatagriengkrai expressed confidence in the team's ability to secure a win and boost their morale for the ongoing championship.
According to Thai News Agency, Coach Kiattipong emphasized the importance of today's match in building the team's confidence. After the final training session, he mentioned that they have focused on refining game strategies and addressing past mistakes to ensure they are well-prepared. He noted that while Australia has introduced several new players, the Thai team must concentrate on delivering their best performance.
The anticipated starting lineup includes setter Pornpun Guedparach, who is also the team captain, or Natthanicha Jaisan; opposite hitter Pimpichaya Kokram; outside hitters Chatchuon Moksri, Sasipaporn Chantavisut, or Acharaaporn Kongyot; middle blockers Thaddao Nuekjaeng and Kaewkallaya Kamulthala; and libero Piyanut Paennoy.
The stakes are high as the winner of this year's Asian Championship will secure a spot in the 2028 Olympic Games, while the top three teams will qualify for the 2027 World Championship. The Thai national team's schedule in Group B includes matches against Indonesia on August 24th and Kazakhstan on August 25th.