Egypt’s Yousaf top seed for Pak int’l squash

ISLAMABAD: Egypt’s Yousaf Ibrahim, ranked world No 43, is the top seed for the $20,000 men Serena Huawei Pakistan International Squash that gets into action at the Mushaf Ali Mir Complex from December 15.

With tournament, that will be the last international of the year, the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) leading officials eye on improving top local players rankings. “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,” Air Vice Marshal Amir Masood who was also accompanied by Hussain Udvani (Serena Hotel), Group Captain Tahir Sultan, (secretary PSF) and Qamar Zaman former British Open champion, said. He hoped that getting the hosting rights for the next World Junior Championship. “We are about to pursue a plan where we would target school going students to try to look for talent as the Egyptians do. With the World Juniors we hope to groom future crop. We would also work on existing lot. However, unless and until these players work on their fitness and stamina, their improvement on 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, $ 12000 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.