PHOTO: AFP
The news was revealed by secretary Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Badminton Association Haji Amjad Khan while addressing Sports Forum Program of K-P Sports Writers Association at the Media Center, Qayyum Sports Complex on Tuesday.
Pakistan’s very own badminton international player, Mian Sadaqat Shah, who recently represented Pakistan in the World Badminton Championship held in Canada and achieved the third position out of 23 participating countries, was also present at the occasion.
Amjad also said that Badminton in KP has received a great boost in the last four five years. He mentioned Murad Ali, a badminton player hailing from KP, who became the National Champion and also spoke about Hamza Ibrahim, another promising player from KP, who achieved the honour of winning National Junior Championship played in Karachi.
"So we have the National Senior and National Junior Champions, both from KP, which clearly highlights efforts being put by the association for the promotion of badminton in KP in particular and Pakistan in general," he added.
“For the last four years, our boys and girls have had the honour of winning the U-16 (girls) and U-17 (boys) title by ending Punjab's dominance in the games.
“Winning these titles after a drought of 24-long-years actually tells our efforts behind it,” said Ajmal.
He said there is no dearth of talent however due to lack of facilities and the soaring rise in the price of sports gear has forced the youngsters out of the sport. He said the price of one dozen shuttle cost Rs. 2600 and racket price increased to Rs. 5000, sums which are unaffordable for the budding players.
However, recently there has been a historical signing of an agreement between Pakistan Badminton Federation and world renowned Yonex Company which stipulates that top 36 players will be supported with full gear of the game.
“The gear includes rackets, shuttles, uniform, shoes, track-suites and other essentials,” he added.
Amjad also talked about international activities lined up for Pakistani players.
“Pakistan is going to host China badminton team for a five- match series in Oct-Nov this year in Jinnah Sports Complex Islamabad. Soon after Chinese team visit, Pakistan will also host South Asian Association team including Sri Lanka India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Afghanistan, Bhutan, and Maldives.”
Amjad disclosed that a national camp would be setup in October this year wherein male and female players from across Pakistan in Under 16, 17 and 19 categories will be invited and trained under an international coach. He also lauded KP coach Nadeem Khan for his dedication and commitment in preparation of players at Junior and Senior levels.
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