LAHORE, Dec 5: World No 4 Jonathan Power of Canada has pulled out of World Open squash tournament to be played here from Dec 12 to 21 after breaking his finger, organizers said on Friday.

“Professional Squash Association (PSA) has informed us that Jonathan has pulled out after breaking his finger in the Qatar Open,” said tournament director, Karamat Ullah Chaudhary.

Power injured his finger after colliding with Englishman Nick Matthew in the first round. Matthew was leading 8-15, 15-6, 8-5 when the incident happened.

He said it was unfortunate such a top class player has pulled out from the event. Power is the winner of the Pakistan Open held here last year.

Karamat said Power was seeded number 4 in the tournament and after his withdrawal, fresh draws have been prepared and players have been given seedings again.

“Jonathan’s place has been filled by Thierry Lincou of France who is world No 7 and now seeded fourth in the tournament.

Following are fresh seedings of the 10-day event which offers a cash prize of $170,000. World No 3 David Palmer from Australia who is the defending champion is top seed.

World No 1 Peter Nicol (England 2), John White (Scotland 3), Thierry Lincou (France 4), Anthony Ricketts (Australia 5), Ong Beng Hee (Malaysia 6), Karim Derwish (Egypt 7), Lee Beechill (8), Amr Shabana (Egypt 9).

World No 9 Steward Boswell of Australia who is also injured is not taking part in the event.

—APP