Top-seeded Pakistani squash players Nasir Iqbal and Noor Zaman delivered a thrilling performance to secure a place in the men’s final of the 2nd Asian Doubles Squash Championship, defeating hosts Malaysia 2-1 in a tense semi-final match held Wednesday at Jalan Stadium, Sarawak.
The Malaysian team, consisting of Duncan Lee and Syafiq Kamal, drew first blood by narrowly taking the opening set 11-10. However, the Pakistani duo staged a brilliant comeback, showcasing their resilience and strategic gameplay to clinch the next two sets 11-9, sealing victory in an intense 69-minute encounter.
Iqbal and Zaman will now face arch-rivals India in the highly anticipated final on Thursday, setting the stage for an exciting regional showdown.
The pair’s journey to the final was marked by strong performances, including a 2-1 quarter-final win against Korea in just 37 minutes on Tuesday. Their momentum continues to build, reflecting their formidable form on the Asian squash circuit.
Earlier this month, the duo also competed at the 23rd Asian Individual Squash Championships, also held in Malaysia. Nasir Iqbal impressed by defeating Lai Cheuk Nam of Hong Kong to reach the quarter-finals, while Zaman was edged out in a close 3-2 battle by Malaysia’s Joachim Chuah in the pre-quarters.
Noor Zaman has had a particularly memorable season, having been crowned men’s champion at the U23 World Squash Championships in April after an incredible comeback win against Egypt’s Karim El Torkey.
With both players now peaking in form and gelling perfectly as a team, hopes are high for Pakistan to claim the Asian Doubles title. Their performance also reflects the rising talent and renewed energy in Pakistan squash, a sport once dominated globally by the nation.
The final against India promises to be a fierce contest, and fans from both countries will be watching closely as the two young stars aim to bring the title home.
