ISLAMABAD, July 8: A four-member Pakistan squad has been finalised for participation in the 10th Fina World Swimming Championship starting in Barcelona (Spain) from Sunday.

Pakistan Swimming Federation (PSF) has selected two girls—Kiran Khan and Rubab Reza— and a male swimmer, Mumtaz Ahmed, for representing the country in the world event being held under the auspices of World Swimming Federation (Fina).

The secretary of PSF, Kamran Butt, will be the manager of the squad wich arrives in the largest Spanish city of Barcelona on Monday—the day after the opening ceremony since their preliminary heats are scheduled a few days later.

Mumtaz of Pakistan Army, still “untouchable” at 33, has been hailed as the best contemporary male swimmer in the country with 200, 400 and 1500 metres freestyle being his favourite events.

The 14-year-old Kiran of Wapda shot to national swimming scene by claiming seven gold medals in the National Games swimming events here in 2001.

Then dubbed the “golden girl”, she was Pakistan’s best hope for a maiden female swimming gold medal in the 9th SAF Games here before these were thrice postponed and then cancelled.

Rubab Reza of Punjab has also been impressive in recent events at tender young age of 12—hence her selection in the Barcelona-bound squad.

PSF hopes the much-needed international exposure would stand the two female swimmers in good stead for the future Asian and SAF Games competitions.—APP