By: Mohsin Ali
PESHAWAR: Muhammad Salar was crowned champion as the Independence Day Squash Tournament concluded at the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Coaching Centre Peshawar, where around 60 players took part in the event.
The tournament was organised in Peshawar on the directives of the Pakistan Sports Board. In the final, Muhammad Salar put up an impressive performance to defeat Shehzad Najib and claim the championship title.
Both finalists had earlier shown fine form in their semi-final matches to qualify for the title clash. Nearly 60 players featured in the tournament, while 15 players produced notable performances and secured different positions in the championship.
Former World Squash Champion Qamar Zaman and Peshawar Airport Chief Security Officer Manwar Zareef attended the closing ceremony as chief guests.
The ceremony was also 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.
Speaking on the occasion, Qamar Zaman said Pakistan had once held a commanding position in world squash, with Pakistani players dominating the international circuit for decades.
He said that the country’s golden period in squash was built on passion, dedication and a firm commitment to the sport. Referring to the achievements of legendary Pakistani players, including himself, Jansher Khan and Mohibullah Khan, he said hard work, discipline and sincere devotion were vital for success.
Qamar Zaman urged young players to see squash not only as a game but also as a chance to build a successful future. He called upon them to work with determination and play their role in helping Pakistan regain its lost status in world squash.
Peshawar Airport Chief Security Officer Manwar Zareef said the promotion of sports was necessary to involve young people in healthy and positive activities. He said sports helped youth maintain physical fitness and also developed discipline, teamwork, tolerance and a competitive spirit.
He underlined the need to promote squash and other sports, besides providing athletes with improved training and playing facilities.
At the end of the ceremony, the chief guests distributed certificates among the 15 outstanding performers and congratulated the winners on their achievements.
