PESHAWAR: Muhammad Salar was crowned champion as the Independence Day Squash Tournament, held on the directives of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), concluded at the PSB Coaching Centre Peshawar.
Around 60 players took part in the tournament, which featured competitive contests and impressive performances from young squash players. In the final, Muhammad Salar played with confidence and skill to defeat Shehzad Najib and secure the championship title.
Both finalists had earlier produced strong performances in their semi-final matches to qualify for the title clash. According to the organisers, 15 players stood out during the championship and secured different positions for their notable performances.
Former world squash champion Qamar Zaman and Peshawar Airport Chief Security Officer Manwar Zareef attended the closing ceremony as chief guests.
The ceremony was also attended by PSB Coaching Centre Peshawar Director Muhammad Akram Bhatti, former PSB Coaching Centre director and former world No 2 squash player Mohibullah Khan, squash coach Shehzad Mohib, participating players, coaches and other sports personalities.
Speaking on the occasion, Qamar Zaman said Pakistan had once held a commanding position in world squash, with Pakistani players dominating the international circuit for decades.
He said that passion, dedication and a strong commitment to the game were the key reasons behind that golden era. Recalling the services and achievements of legendary Pakistani squash players, including himself, Jansher Khan and Mohibullah Khan, he said hard work, discipline and sincere dedication remained essential for success in the sport.
Qamar Zaman advised young players to view squash not only as a game but also as an opportunity to build a successful future. He urged them to work with determination and play their role in helping Pakistan regain its lost standing in world squash.
Peshawar Airport Chief Security Officer Manwar Zareef said the promotion of sports was vital for involving youth in healthy and constructive activities. He said sports helped young people maintain physical fitness while also developing discipline, teamwork, tolerance and a competitive spirit.
He underlined the need to promote squash and other sports, besides providing athletes with improved training and playing facilities.
At the end of the ceremony, the chief guests distributed certificates among the 15 outstanding performers and congratulated the winners on their achievements.
