PESHAWAR: Promising youngster Khushal Riaz Khan hoped playing in international events will boost his growth in the game of squash.

On his return to the country after participating in the British Junior Open where he contested in the U-13 category, winning five out of his eight games, he said sending youngsters abroad would help Pakistan regain their lost glory in the sport.

“Participation in international events helps emerging players polish their talents,” Khushal told reporters upon his arrival. “The exposure through these events is vital in helping Pakistan regain their former place in the world game.”

The youngster added that he was working hard after his feats in the British Junior Open which was held in Sheffield from Jan 2-6. “Taking part in the event has fuelled my desire to work hard in order to take part in international events in the future,” he said.

Khushal braved freezing cold and an injury to stun local hope Alex Van Blerk 11-4, 15-14, 11-2 in the first round but lost to Emirhan Sen, the Turkish World No 9, in the second round despite winning the first game.

He rebounded superbly to overcome Britain’s Gabriel Cox 11-9, 10-12, 11-7, 7-11, 11-7 but then lost to hot favourite Emilio Velazquez — the Mexican who was named the player of the tournament — 6-11, 4-11, 10-12.

Khushal, who got formal training from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) under the supervision of the world class coaches including director squash Mohibullah Khan, then won 11-7, 7-11, 11-3, 11-6 against Pole Jakub Pyltowany before overcoming French top seed Gregory Malsang 11-9, 11-0, 11-0.

Published in Dawn January 13th , 2014

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