Squash: Waqar in reckoning for Asian Championship

Squash player likely to be included as ban ends on March 28.

KARACHI: Banned player Waqar Mehboob could be included in the squad for the upcoming Asian Championship, which will be held in May, as his sanction ends on March 28, it has been learnt by The Express Tribune.

The Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) conducted four-day trials from March 12 in Islamabad in order to finalise the squad for the event in which Farhan Mehboob was the outstanding performer. Nasir Iqbal, who gave the trials while carrying injuries, finished second. Sheikh Saqib Yousuf ended the trials in third position, while Farhan Zaman ended fourth.

Despite having a clear picture, the PSF has decided to wait a little longer and is even contemplating on sending some additional names to the Asian Squash Federation.

While the top four finishers remain in pole position for selection, the PSF officials want to deliberate further on the line-up.

The PSF Secretary Abdul Wahab Marwat said the federation will send the best possible squad for the event. “It’s premature to say anything but we’ll send the best available players for the mega event.”

However, an official close to the matter said Waqar is likely to be included.

“Waqar’s chances of playing in the Asian Championship are quite good. He looks likely to be part of the line-up,” said the official.

Meanwhile, Waqar said that he has not lost his touch while serving the ban. “I continued my training during this time and my fitness levels will be at par with those who attended the camp,” said Waqar.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 19^th, 2012.