29 May 2004	Saturday	09 Rabi-us-Saani 1425

ISLAMABAD, May 28: Pakistan are to compete in the second edition of the World Doubles Squash Championship in Chennai, India in November for the first time.

Wng Cdr Sajid Waheed, secretary of the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) said on Friday that initially the federation had reservations on its players attending the championship. However on the recommendation of new coach Jamshed Gul, it had now been decided to go-ahead.

"Since we did not have doubles courts earlier on, we were reluctant to contest but now with the completion of the new Mushaf Squash Complex, we have a facility where we can hold training camps."

The Mushaf Complex in Islamabad, built at a cost of approximately Rs 50 million has a portable glass wall court with four for practice that can be converted into three combi courts.

The doubles championship, the inaugural edition of which was held in Australia, has events for men's, women's and mixed doubles. The PSF plans to request the UK-based Carla Khan to represent Pakistan in the mixed doubles.

Carla, who is a granddaughter of squash legend Azam Khan and daughter of Wasil Khan, plays professional squash in England. "Since she has been playing under Pakistan flag for some years now, I don't think she would have a problem playing in the championship."