PSF wants Carla in Asiad squad

Published June 29, 2002

ISLAMABAD, June 28: The Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) is keen on having England-based Carla Khan on the squad for this fall’s Asian Games in the South Korean city of Busan.

In this regard, the PSF has written to the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) to ensure that she is considered and is on the contingent for the Sept 30 to Oct 4 Games.

Sqd Ldr. Sajid Waheed, secretary of the PSF said Friday that with Carla, world ranked 49 on the team, Pakistan had a good chance of winning at least a silver in the presence of top Malaysian player Nicol David.

Initially it had been agreed between the POA and PSF that two players along with a manager and coach would be sent to the Games. And the federation, at its annual general meeting last Tuesday, had named Mansoor Zaman and Shahid Zaman on the team. But efforts are now on to have Carla included too.

Carla, granddaughter of Azam Khan, plays professional squash in England and was due to arrive here Friday evening to take part in the PC Burbhan Women’s Championship.

In the championship that kicks off on July 2, Carla will represent Sindh which will have six players. The draw of 16 will also see eight players from Punjab and another two from Sindh. The final is slated for July 4.

Sajid said that he would press for Carla’s inclusion in the Asian Games squad at a meeting of the POA on July 3 which will discuss the size of the contingent.

Carla will also represent Pakistan at next year’s SAF Games in Islamabad.