ISLAMABAD, Aug 7: Squash legend Jahangir Khan, who heads the World Squash Federation (WSF), has made out a strong case for the inclusion of squash in the Olympic Games.

In an interview on Tuesday here, Jahangir said that squash had received very encouraging response from the member countries of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the sport was likely to be included in the extravaganza.

“Most people appear surprised that squash isn't already part of the Olympic Games movement, particularly as we fulfil all the criteria, with the sport played in over 150 countries spread over Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania.

“And our sport is growing,” said a confident-looking Jahangir. “The number of national federations affiliated with the WSF has doubled in the past 15 years to 125 - and new applications for the same continue to arrive. The professional tours are growing in events and prizemoney and the number of worldwide players now exceed 15 million,” disclosed the champion.

“But perhaps the most compelling reason to welcome us into the Games community is that squash is all about sheer athleticism. At the top level, squash requires a remarkable combination of power, speed, flexibility, agility and instant reflexes.

“And let's not forget squash's trademark - outstanding endurance, both muscular and cardiovascular. Surely the Olympic Games are principally all about superior athletic performance,” added Jahangir who won nearly 700 matches in a marathon unbeaten run spreading over five and half years. “I have enjoyed a magnificent career in squash, but I admit that my biggest disappointment is not having been able to compete for an Olympic gold medal. If I could help achieve this for the next generation of players it would be my proudest moment,” he said. —APP