LAHORE, July 8: Five countries have accepted the invitation to take part in the Pakistan Satellite badminton tournament which will be played at Islamabad from Nov 30 to Dec 4.

This was stated by the Pakistan Badminton Federation (PBF) secretary, Aamir Hayat Khan Rokri, while addressing a press conference to announce the details of the 7th Ameer Abdullah Khan Rokri badminton tournament, to be held at the New Khan Hall from Aug 16 to 22.

Rokri, stated that India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Syria and Iran had confirmed their participation. He pointed out that PBF was also hopeful that China, Malaysia and Thailand would send their second string teams.

He disclosed that the PBF had decided to send top eight menand as many women for further training to Malaysia this year. The federation was also trying to hire the servicesof a foreign coach, but shortage of funds was the only impediment.

A qualified coach demands from around US Dollars 2500 to 3000 per month which the federation could not pay and is struggling to get a sponsor. He specified that Pakistan would participate in a Satellite tournament to be held in India from Oct 25 and it would give more international exposure.

He said that after getting international exposure the Pakistani boys were able to beat the world ranked 40th Sri Lanka in the ninth SAF Games this year. Had the international body recognised SAF Games for international ranking, Pakistan would have been elevated to a position from 120th to 40th, he stressed.

Meanwhile, nine departments, four provinces, Fata and Islamabad would field about 120 players in seven events including men's and women's teams, singles, doubles and mixed doubles in the Amir Abdullah Rokhari tournament.

A total cash prize of Rs 120,000 would be given and the amount is equal to the prize money of the national championship, he added. The departments participating are defending champions New Khan, Wapda, Railways, National Bank, PIA, PTCL, PMAD, KPT and Army. He said that all players would be provided free boarding and lodging.