ISLAMABAD - Former world squash champion Jahanghir Khan has said that only legends can help revive Pakistan squash and regain its lost glories.
Talking to the journalists, Jahanghir said: “As long as the legends remain onboard, it will serve Pakistan squash a great deal and help it in regaining lost glory. I am ready to help the country and federation in glorifying Pakistan squash.”
He also lauded the PSF for hiring the services of another squash legend Jansher Khan as PSF advisor and termed it very fruitful for Pakistan squash. “It is quite encouraging sign that foreigners are coming in quite a few numbers to play in Pakistan. Our players must learn from international players, how to play matches. Squash is all about reading the game, one after another, no one can plan entire match. The PSF is providing facilities to the players, now it’s their turn to pay back by performing well in the international events.”
“The PSA has allocated two $25,000 events to Pakistan each year. I am quite hopeful and will play my role to request the PSA to allocate higher amount of money events to the country, as more and more international players will come and love to play in the peaceful and conducive environment,” he added.
About Nasir’s lost to Egyptian Abouelghar in the second semifinal, Jahangir said that it was hard to believe Nasir surrendering 10-4 lead and gave full credit to Abouelghar for playing outstanding squash. “The momentum was very much with Nasir but he committed blunder by throwing away such comfortable lead which cost him dearly and he was defeated by the Egyptian.”
When asked Abouelghar had just played five-game quarterfinal and was not looking at the top of the game and Nasir should have played more sensibly, Jahanghir said: “It makes no difference how longer match, one had played earlier. Sometimes, it is added advantage of playing tough matches one remains super fit and fully prepared for the next match. We have to keep in mind Nasir was playing against higher-ranked player, he played well, but could not carry the momentum.”
“Pakistani players should improve their fitness levels. Had Nasir managed to win the fourth game, he could have been in the driving seat and win the match,” he added.
When asked about time is ripe the PSF must work on grooming grassroots level talent and invest on fresh blood, the squash legend said: “Yes, we are working on that, but the current players should also remain onboard and prove their mettle at international level. It will take five to eight years on grooming fresh talent, but that will be in great beneficial for the country in the years to come.”