Mehboob wants Pakistan to play welcoming hosts

Hero of Squash Series triumph underlines importance of foreign players' visit

KARACHI: Squash star Farhan Mehboob has given a big thumb up to the recent staging of mega Squash Series at Mushaf Complex in Islamabad, where he defeated Egypt's Karim Al-Fathi 3-0 in the last tie to ensure Pakistan triumphed 5-2 against a World V side that also featured American Todd Harrity, England's Nathan Lake, French Lucas Serme and Hong Kong's Lee Au.

"The World V series was definitely a helpful event for us, and I'm just glad that I got to defeat world number 35 Al-Fathi in the last match," Mehboob, whose own world ranking is 50^th, told The Express Tribune. "This series was important because we need to show the world that Pakistan can host international standard tournaments and that our players can give them tough competition. It has been a great experience."

Mehboob feels it is imperative that international stars are given a warm reception and the best facilities in Pakistan so they feel comfortably coming in future too.

"We took these players for an air safari to see K2," he revealed. "They were fascinated by the scenic beauty they saw and will now remember Pakistan forever; this will leave a mark on them. As Pakistanis we need to make sure that we are giving them our best both on and off the court."

While Mehboob was a welcome host off the court, he was a fierce competitor on it, something he says is down to him dedicating the last two months to training.

"I worked extremely hard in May and June," said Mehboob. "As a result I think my game has improved. After winning against Al-Fathi especially, I feel more confident."

Next up is the more challenging E-series against Egypt, who boast some of the world's best squash players in their ranks.

"We'll probably have players such as world number two Karim Abdel Gawwad and Omer Mosaad coming to play with us, which is a big opportunity," said Mehboob. "But I feel I'll be even better because I wouldn't have any pressure on me against Egypt. Sure they have the best players in the business but I feel we can spring a few surprises."