Withdrawal of Qadsia and Salmiya Disrupts Handball Premier League Round 14 Opening
Al-Sulaibikhat and Al-Arabi awarded victories by default after opponents withdrew, with fines imposed.
Translated by Qiyas from الجريدة — Original source
Kuwait officials announced the withdrawal of Al-Qadsia and Al-Salmiya from their respective matches against Al-Shabab and Al-Arabi in the 14th round of the Premier Handball League, which were scheduled for this evening at the Ad-Daiya Hall, marking the resumption of the competition after a seven-month hiatus.
Al-Qadsia failed to appear at the Union Hall at the appointed time, while Al-Shabab players were present. The refereeing team waited the legally mandated 15 minutes before declaring a walkover victory for Al-Shabab.
The same scenario unfolded in the second match between Al-Salmiya and Al-Arabi. Al-Arabi (the Green team) arrived at the venue, while Al-Salmiya players were absent, leading the referee to award the victory to Al-Arabi according to the regulations.
Under the regulations, both matches were recorded with a 10-0 scoreline in favor of Al-Shabab and Al-Arabi, with each team awarded two points for the win. Additionally, each withdrawing team is subject to a fine of 1,000 dinars.
The regulations stipulate escalating penalties for repeated withdrawals, up to the annulment of a team’s results from the competition upon a third absence.
If both teams are disqualified, the number of teams in the league will be reduced to six: Kuwait, Burqan, Kazma, Al-Arabi, Al-Shabab, and Al-Nasr.
