RAWALPINDI, Jan 24: Seven nations have so far confirmed their participation for the 11th Asian Junior Squash Championship opening in Islamabad early next month.

The Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) Friday officially launched the championship at a function which was attended among others by representatives of sponsors Nokia and Askari Mastercard and the squash boss, Air Chief Marshal Mushaf Ali Mir.

The tournament director, Air Cdr Munawar Alam said that India, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Kuwait, Singapore, Qatar and Sri Lanka were all confirmed participants besides the hosts. The event is for both boys and girls. Qatar would compete in the individual event only.

On the occasion, the senior vice president of the PSF, Air Vice Marshal Saleem A. Nawaz announced the Pakistani teams for the Feb 2 to 9 tournament that will take place at the Roshan Khan Squash Complex.

Khalid Atlas, Shah Nawaz, Yasir Butt and Farhan Mahboob were named to represent the country in the tournament that has been held regularly since 1983. The girls chosen were Sara Awan, Muqadas Ashraf, Maria Toor and Alia Sarfraz.

Secretary of the PSF, Wing Cdr. Sajid Waheed said that it would be the first time Pakistani girls would be taking part in an international tournament.

He said that an Annual General Meeting of the Asian Squash Federation would also be held on Feb 9 with the delegates beginning to arrive on Feb 7.