‘Disappointed’ Amir Atlas coaching, playing in US

KARACHI: Amir Atlas Khan has left the country to play in the United States, having been “disappointed by the irrational” policies of Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF).
“I got a very attractive offer from an American family and I am now happy to play in the USA,” said Amir while talking to ‘The News’ from the US. “I have not signed any contract with this family because I would always like to represent Pakistan,” he said. He added that he was getting a good amount from the family for coaching three children. “I will play side by side 12 or more international events in a year here in the US. By the end of the year, I plan to play at least six events,” said Amir.
Amir said in Pakistan it had become impossible for him to get funding to play international events. “PSF refused to support me as it is busy investing in those lame players who have failed to give desired results in years. The officials of PSF have developed a personal grudge with me, which badly hurt the Pakistani squash,” said Amir.
He said he had no other option in this situation. “Luckily I got this offer,” he added.
Amir said his main aim was to better his international ranking. “I will come to play only national events in Pakistan. I was made to choose this way. I talked to the president PSF many times and requested him to stop the injustice, but no corrective action was taken by him,” said Amir.
He said he won Asian Individual Championship for Pakistan after a gap of 15 years but he was not honoured for this. “The PSF officials did not acknowledge my services and continued supporting other players,” added Amir.
“The Prime Minister,” he added, “gave Rs50 million to PSF in recognition of my efforts to win this championship. The PM wanted PSF to spend that money on me so that I could win more laurels for the country, but the PSF officials misused that huge amount. It is investing in those players who don’t have any chance of winning at the international level,” added Amir.
Amir requested the PM to intervene and help the game of squash in Pakistan. “I would like to request the PM to intervene and set things right in PSF. The federation is ruining the game and making talented, genuine players leave the country,” said Amir.