ISLAMABAD: Rising squash star Mohammad Ammad claimed the title at the inaugural Jansher Khan PSA Squash Tournament, overcoming Anas Ali in an exciting four-set final held at the Mushaf Squash Complex on Monday.
Ammad showcased excellent court control and stamina to beat his opponent with a scoreline of 11-4, 11-6, 7-11, 11-5 in a match that lasted 38 minutes. His performance highlighted his potential as one of the promising names in Pakistanâs squash circuit.
The tournament, organized under the banner of the Professional Squash Association (PSA), was launched as a tribute to legendary squash icon Jansher Khanâone of Pakistanâs greatest athletes with multiple world titles to his name. Jansher Khan graced the final as the chief guest, presenting trophies and souvenirs to the top performers and offering words of encouragement to the young players.
A total of 32 players from across the country participated in the tournament, which featured a prize purse of $1,000. Although modest in scale, the event held great importance as it aimed to provide much-needed exposure and ranking points for lower-ranked Pakistani squash players, many of whom struggle to find international opportunities due to lack of resources.
Officials from the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) and sponsoring bodies were present at the closing ceremony. They reiterated their commitment to reviving squash in the country, with a focus on nurturing talent at the grassroots level. The success of the event marks a positive step towards restoring Pakistanâs dominance in squashâa sport where it once reigned supreme for decades.
Speaking after the final, Ammad expressed gratitude for the opportunity. âItâs an honor to win a tournament named after a legend like Jansher Khan. This platform gave players like me a chance to compete and grow. I hope we continue to get such opportunities,â he said.
Anas Ali, despite falling short in the final, earned praise for his performance throughout the tournament. Both finalists displayed determination and skill, reflecting the depth of talent in Pakistanâs squash scene that often goes unnoticed.
The tournament not only celebrated the legacy of Jansher Khan but also offered a renewed sense of hope for young players aiming to make their mark. With continued support and investment, such initiatives can pave the way for Pakistan to reclaim its former glory in the global squash arena.
The event closed with cheers and a renewed sense of purposeâbringing together talent, tradition, and the promise of a bright future for Pakistani squash.
