PSF to host int'l men's, women's squash events from April 1.

Byline: Mohsin Ali

ISLAMABAD -- Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) will host $30,000 men's and $10,000 women's squash tournaments at Mushaf Squash Complex from April 1 to 5.

'Top international players will be seen in action during the back-to-back tournaments, as soon after the two events, another $20,000 for men's will start from April 6 to 10 at the same venue,' said PSF Secretary Group Captain Tahir Sultan, along with PSF Director Academies Air Commodore (R) Aftab Qureshi and Game Development Officer Squadron Leader Aamir Iqbal.

Tahir said besides Pakistanis, top international players from Egypt, Iran, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Spain, Czech Republic, Ireland, South Korea, Switzerland, South Africa, Belgium, Germany, Scotland and Zimbabwe will be in action during the events. 'The PSF is striving to provide local players maximum opportunities to play against the best in the business.

'We conducted 19 men and women tournaments last year and we are expecting same amount of tournaments this year. We can provide the best training, tournaments, coaches, but we can't play for them as it is their responsibility to pay back in the best possible manner. We are grateful to Professional Squash Association (PSA) for allocating top tournaments to Pakistan and assuring us of allocating more such high-profile tournaments,' he added.

The PSF secretary said that this year, Pakistani juniors have won a lot of international tournaments for the country. 'We are hoping that their services will be duly recognised and the PM will invite them for incentives as it will motivate them to earn more laurels for the country. We are doing wonders for Pakistan squash in very limited resources with the help of Pakistan Air Force and ensuring the best training and international exposure for the players.

'We are sending junior players to Egypt for training and playing in the leagues, which is helping and grooming them well. We are also sending players to Asian Senior Individual Squash Championship starting in Malaysia next month and we are upbeat about their...