ISLAMABAD: Egypt’s Yousaf Ibrahim, No 43 in world ranking, is the top seed for the men’s $20,000 Serena-Huawei Pakistan International Squash Tournament that gets into action from December 15 here at the Mushaf Ali Mir Complex.
With the event that will be the last international of the year, the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) officials hope that rankings of the top local players will get a boost.
“Our efforts are on to not only improve players rankings but also prepare a crop of youngsters who go on to make a name for themselves and for the country,” said Air Vice Marshal Amir Masood, who was also accompanied by Group Captain Tahir Sultan, Qamar Zaman, Hussain Udvani.
Amir was hopeful to get hosting rights for the next World Junior Championship.
“We are about to pursue a plan where we would target school-going youths to look for talent as the Egyptians do. With the World Juniors we hope to groom our future crop. We would also work on existing lot. However, unless and until these players work on their fitness and stamina their improvement in the ranking is difficult. Squash is an individual game that requires personal efforts,” he said.
Tayyab Aslam will carry Pakistan hopes in the event. Farhan Mehboob and host of other locals and internationals have also been drawn in the main round.
On the sidelines of men’s event, $12,000 international for women will also be played. Hong Kong’s Tsz Wing Tong will be the top seed with ladies from USA, Egypt, Malaysia, Spain and Switzerland also lined up in the main draw. Amna Fayyaz is the top local seed for the event.