The Kuwaiti referees Hamad Al-Faraj and Hussein Ashkanani

KUWAIT CITY, July 16: Kuwaiti referees Hamad Al-Faraj and Hussein Ashkanani arrived in China yesterday to officiate matches at the Asian Women’s Youth Handball Championship, scheduled from July 18 to 28.

Their selection reflects the Asian Handball Federation’s confidence in the quality and expertise of Kuwaiti referees. Al-Faraj and Ashkanani bring extensive experience and a high level of competency, which will contribute significantly to the successful execution of the tournament’s refereeing duties.

In club news, Burgan Club has signed player Nasser Al-Faraj on a two-season deal to bolster the first-handball team ahead of the new season.

This move follows the club’s earlier signing of Serbian national team standout Jovica Nikolić as the team’s third foreign professional, joining Japanese player Kasuke Yasuhira and Croatian Stipe Mandalinic.

The club also renewed the contracts of key local players, including goalkeeper Mahdi Khan, Hamoud Al-Adwani, and Ahmed Mazal. Additionally, national coach Hussein Habib will continue at the helm, following a contract renewal.

Burgan Club made history last season by finishing second in the Premier League for the first time, securing qualification for the upcoming AFC Club Championship.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff