Kuala lumpur: The upcoming Asian Clubs Sepak Takraw League (ACSL) has the potential to adopt a format similar to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League to attract wider interest among fans of the sport.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Abdul Halim Kader, President of the Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (ASTAF), suggested that the ACSL could feature two divisions, akin to the AFC Champions League Elite and AFC Champions League Two. This proposal was discussed during a recent meeting with AFC Secretary-General Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John at the AFC House in Bukit Jalil.

"During the one-hour meeting, Windsor provided strong support and valuable advice regarding the competition format, club selection, licensing, player registration, and strategies for attracting sponsors, as well as the integration of sports science and sports technology," Abdul Halim stated in an ASTAF statement. The meeting also covered aspects such as the Operations Manual, competition structure, governance, and best practices in sports management.

Abdul Halim emphasized that the meeting provided ASTAF with fresh perspectives and strategic insights to elevate sepak takraw on the global stage. He noted that ASTAF chose to seek guidance from the AFC due to their recognition as a world-class governance model and their achievements in sporting excellence.

Abdul Halim further mentioned that ASTAF is determined to adopt similar strategies to enhance the development, professionalism, and international recognition of sepak takraw. A follow-up meeting with the AFC is planned, where a special technical research group will be involved to strengthen cooperation between the two parties.

For the record, the ACSL is expected to commence in 2026 or 2027, bringing together the best clubs from eight to 10 ASTAF member nations.