ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Squash Federation has pinned high hopes on the 17th FMC Asian Championship which starts here on Wednesday, claiming it would help them in hosting more international events in future.

Players from Malaysia, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, China, Sri Lanka, Iran and Pakistan will test their mettle in the five-day championship.

“A successful hosting of this event will open new avenues for Pakistan,” Air Vice-Marshal Razi Nawab informed the media a day before the start of the event.

He said it would also be a step forward to bring more international events to the country.

He thanked the Asian Squash Federation for awarding the championship to Pakistan.

“We are really thankful to the Asian squash body. The World Squash Federation is also backing us. It is the Players Squash Association that has not judged the true realities and potential of Pakistan yet.”

Barring Iran players who have yet to arrive, players from all other seven countries have arrived for the event.

“We hope that the crowd will be entertained. The best of Asian players are here and some exciting matches are on the cards,” he added.

The men event has the draw of 32 while the women category has some of the best in the world.

AVM Nawab said that Hong Kong-based Asian squash president David Muni was also expected to reach here during the event.

He termed the security measures satisfactory for the event.

“We have planned foolproof security for our guests and hopefully they will enjoy their stay in Pakistan.”

Earlier, Wing Cdr Wahab Marwat gave detailed information about the event.