Jansher plans lucrative squash league

Former world champion wooing top players to Pakistan.

LAHORE:

Pakistan’s squash legend Jansher Khan is planning to attract international players to the country by organising a lucrative league next year.

According to Jansher, blueprints of the league to be held next year are ready and the prize-money will ensure significant foreign participants.

“Security is a huge concern in Pakistan and that forms the biggest hurdle in hosting or organising an international event,” Khan told reporters on the sidelines of the 1st Prime Minister FMC International Squash Pakistan Circuit-II being played at the Punjab Squash Complex.

“To keep our players heavily involved in the sport, we’ve planned this league and we’ll invite the top players around the world to come to Pakistan. With this, we can keep the game alive and, more importantly, our players will get an opportunity to play against the world’s best players.”

Jansher confirmed that work had started and, later this year, players from Egypt, England and France will be invited to participate in the league. “Currently we’re working on the feasibility of sponsors as the participating player will be paid heavily.”

No tussle with Amir Atlas

Meanwhile, Khan ruled out any personal tussle with Amir Atlas but, instead, blamed the latter’s disciplinary problems for his downfall.

“He’s like my own child but when it comes to discipline, we can’t compromise on anything. No doubt he’s a great player in Pakistan but once you don’t take action against any indiscipline, it damages not only the game but affects the whole country.

“Banning him actually sends out a strong message to the youngsters and how they need to act.”

Published in The Express Tribune, May 21^st, 2011.