KARACHI, Aug 12: Squash icon Jahangir Khan believes that a gigantic effort is needed to bring Pakistan squash at par with the world level.

“If we are happy and satisfied with success at the Asian level, Pakistan cannot regain its past glories,” Jahangir, a record ten-time British Open and six-time world champion, said in an interview on the eve of the 66th national Independence Day which will be celebrated on Wednesday.

He insisted the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) must plan out things at the highest level to bring the game — which suffered a rapid decline after the retirement of Jahangir and another legend Jansher Khan — back on track.

“We are no where in the top 20 rankings which shows decline of the game in Pakistan,” he commented.

“Pakistan players used to dominate 5-7 place in the top ten spots in PSA rankings,” the legendary player recalled.

“Without proper and long-term planning with guidance from expert coaches under dedicated people, squash standard in Pakistan cannot be improved,” Jahangir emphasised.

Regretting the present state of affairs in Pakistan squash, he called upon the current crop of players to fully dedicate themselves for achieving excellence in the sport.

“Massive hard work and consistent training are required to accomplish something in squash,” Jahangir stated.—APP