TEHRAN - Iran's men’s national handball team head coach Majid Rahimizadeh discussed the team's preparations for the 2024 Asian Men's Handball Championship.

“This marks our final training camp in Iran. The preparations are underway for additional training sessions leading up to the 2024 Asian Men's Handball Championship,” Rahimizadeh said during the team's recent camp.

“Currently, the team's readiness stands at 60 to 70 percent, and we aim to enhance our readiness in upcoming friendly matches before the championship commences on Jan. 11th in Bahrain,” he added.

Mohammadreza Oraei has sustained an injury but Rahimizadeh is optimistic about his player’s recovery for the competition.

“He has encountered an injury in Oman and is presently undergoing treatment. We're hopeful that his condition won't prevent his participation in the upcoming international camp, which has yet to confirm its location.”

Group B for Iran in the championship comprises South Korea, China, and New Zealand, intensifying the team's challenge in the tournament.

The head coach of Iran national team also commented on the team's prospects.

“All groups are formidable, featuring two or three strong contenders. As these championships serve as the 2025 World Men's Handball Championship qualifiers and with Asia's four quotas, there is a difficult task ahead of us,” he added.

“Korea are the tough opponents, and we will face them after playing against China and New Zealand. Our history of handball rivalry with Korea has been fiercely competitive. Our aim is to be top of the group,” Rahimizadeh concluded.

The upcoming 2024 Asian Men's Handball Championship, which will be the 21st edition of the championship, is set to take place in Bahrain from Jan. 11th to Jan. 25th, 2024.

The tournament is being organized by the Asian Handball Federation (AHF).