Foreign players ‘keen’ on playing in Pakistan

Hong Kong’s Lee hopes PSA allows country to host more events.

ISLAMABAD: After a successful end to the Asian Individual Squash Championship, foreign players have left Pakistan with hopes that the Professional Squash Association (PSA) will allow the nation to hold more tournaments with international entries.

The PSA has restricted Pakistan to just four of its $10,000-tournaments, while entries of foreigner players is also limited. Only players of Pakistan-origin living abroad are allowed to travel and participate in the country.

However, the Asian event where Pakistan hosted players from eight countries in both male and female categories has revived hopes of more tournaments being held in the country. Players were satisfied with security arrangements, adding that the revival of international events should continue to take place.

Hong Kong’s Max Lee said he would love to come back and participate in future PSA events, adding that he would give a positive feedback to the PSA.

“I’m willing to participate in the PSA tournaments here if things get better and Pakistan are allowed to host them with international entries,” Lee told The Express Tribune.

“But the problem is that even if we want to send our entries, the last decision will be taken by PSA which has put restrictions on international participation for the safety of players.”

Meanwhile, Malaysia’s Mohammad Asyruf Azan stated that had no issues coming back to the country. However, he said his opinion alone did not matter much.

“I’m open to the idea of playing PSA tournaments here,” expressed Azan. “But English and European players might have their own concerns.”

Meanwhile, Asian champion Aamir Atlas Khan also pleaded to the professional squash body to end the hiatus and allow Pakistan to hold the $25,000 and $50,000 events.

Legendary Qamar Zaman also revealed that he has been in constant touch with the top PSA officials to allow the country to host $25,000 events, vowing top-class facilities and security for players.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 7^th, 2013.