Sidibari
Some of the big baibalaa clubs have begun practice sessions ahead of the Eid Baibalaa Challenge 1446.
As the trademark tournament of the Baibalaa Association of Maldives BAOM, the Baibalaa Challenge – one of the most valuable events in all of Maldivian sports – has been a longstanding annual event that often takes place in the week following Fitr Eid.
While over 30 clubs have reportedly registered for this year’s tournament, many have officially started training sessions. The clubs that are holding training sessions at the moment include Kuda Henveyru, TFT, BG, Odi, Buru, Lorenzo, LT, Club SDZ, TC and Club Kaasinjee.
Some of the big transfers for this year’s tournament include the three-times Mister Baibalaa Aslam Waheed leaving Club Teenage to join Club Kaasinjee and last year’s Mister Baibalaa Mohamed Mirusaal Yasir (Miroo) joining BG. The Mr Baibalaa from last year’s Office Baibalaa Challenge, Hante, has also joined BG.
Other big transfers include last year’s runner-ups Club Kaasinjee losing Mahfooz Ibrahim, Sumaam Latheef and Ali Wijuhan – all three have transferred to Odi SC.
Among the debuting clubs, TFT appears to be especially strong; with Lufshaan Shakeeb (Puff) Ijaabath Latheef and Abdhullah Shaffan (Shaaka) all seen training in the ring.
Buru SC had won the final match last year against Club Kaasinjee. That was the third time Buru SC won the challenge. They had been champions in 2007 and in 2018.
