PSF names teams for Asian, C’wealth events

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) Monday announced two sets of men’s and women’s teams to compete in the Asian Team Championship (Korea) and later in the Commonwealth Games to be held in Australia.

PSF secretary Group Captain Tahir Sultan told ‘The News’ that trials were earlier delayed in an effort to get Farhan Mehboob fit and ready.

“The trials, earlier set to be held in January, were delayed following a request received from Farhan Mehboob. However, he did not even turn up for February trials leaving us with the available lot.”

In another development, top lady Maria Toor has opted out of the Asian Team Squash citing injury as the reason. However, she looks keen to be part of the Commonwealth Games. ‘The News’ has learnt that Maria’s injury is not that serious and can still make it to the Asian meet.

“We were told by Maria, she also needs rest and wants to skip the Asian Team Championship,” secretary PSF said.The Asian Meet is set to start in South Korea from March 21 while Commonwealth Games will be held in Australia in-between April 5 and 15.

The four-member team for Asian Championship includes Farhan Zaman, Tayyab Aslam, Amaad Fareed and Muhammad Asim Khan while women’s team for the meet comprises Madina Zafar, Sadia Gul, Faiza Zafar and Riffat Khan.

For Commonwealth Games, Farhan Zaman, Tayyab Aslam, Maria Toor and Madina Zafar have been selected to represent Pakistan.The camp for the selected lot has already started at the Mushaf Ali Mir Complex where the team would be trained till their departure.

Considering the strength of team in the Commonwealth Games, Pakistan stands with remote chances of winning any medals. In Asian Championship, chances of making it to the victory stand are good in men’s team event. All depends on Farhan and Tayyab’s fitness and form.