PROVINCE REPORT
PESHAWAR: An Independence Day Squash Tournament, organized in Peshawar on the directives of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), concluded at the PSB Coaching Centre with the participation of around 60 players.
In the final, Muhammad Salar produced an impressive performance to defeat Shehzad Najib and clinch the championship title. Both players had displayed excellent skills in their respective semi-finals to book their places in the final.
A total of nearly 60 players participated in the tournament, while 15 players delivered notable performances and secured different positions in the championship.
Former World Squash Champion Qamar Zaman and Peshawar Airport Chief Security Officer Manwar Zareef were the chief guests at the closing ceremony.
The ceremony was attended by PSB Coaching Centre Peshawar Director Muhammad Akram Bhatti, former Director of the PSB Coaching Centre and former world No. 2 squash player Mohibullah Khan, squash coach Shehzad Mohib, players, coaches and other sports personalities.
Addressing the ceremony, former world champion Qamar Zaman said that Pakistan once enjoyed a dominant position in world squash, with Pakistani players ruling the international circuit for decades.
He said the golden era was driven by passion, dedication and a strong commitment to the sport. Recalling the achievements of legendary Pakistani players, including himself, Jansher Khan and Mohibullah Khan, Qamar Zaman emphasized that hard work, discipline and genuine dedication are essential for success.
He urged young squash players to treat the sport not merely as a game but as an opportunity to build a successful future. He encouraged them to work with determination and help Pakistan regain its lost position in world squash.
Peshawar Airport Chief Security Officer Manwar Zareef said that promoting sports is essential to engaging young people in healthy and positive activities. He noted that sports not only help young people maintain physical fitness but also develop discipline, teamwork, tolerance and a competitive spirit.
He stressed the need to promote squash and other sports and provide athletes with better training and playing facilities.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the chief guests distributed certificates among the 15 outstanding performers and congratulated the winners for their achievements.
