ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) has decided not to send the national team to participate in World Team Squash Championship, citing dismal performances from the players over the last year.

“The final decision was taken by the PSF General Council not to send the team to the World Team Championship which will be held in December in the United States,” said a statement issued by PSF on Sunday. “Our players must understand that it is the matter of immense pride to represent Pakistan but it must he with dignity to add pride to our glorious past and not just show our attendance.”

A PSF official informed that the last edition of the tournament in France saw Pakistan finish 21st out of 23 teams. adding “there is no truth in reports that the PSF took the decision was taken due to financial issues”.

The PSF statement added that the federation was committed to elevating the game in the country and was not only sponsoring the senior and junior players but was also organising lucrative PSA tournaments in the country.

“The PSF also appreciates Minister IPC Dr Fehmida Mirza who stepped forward and immensely appreciated our efforts for achieving historical records in junior titles and awarded cash awards worth around Rs 10million,” said the statement.

“The performances of senior players was assessed by the General Council and it was observed that in the last year their performances had been very disappointing because of poor fitness, despite the PSF spending heavy amounts for PSA tournaments and participation of our players in various international events.

“The approach from most of our senior players is quite disheartening and they are not willing to take the responsibility and put in their efforts to bring glory for Pakistan despite huge support from PSF.”

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2019