Jansher Khan, PSF join hands to revive squash’s lost glory

Pakistan squash legend Jansher Khan is ready to assist the PSF for the revival of squash in Pakistan

The squash gold medal at the Asian Games came with unexpected repercussions as Pakistan legend Jansher Khan decided to work with the Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) for the promotion of the sport that the country once ruled the world.

Khan, a record eight-time world champion who has also won six British Open titles, said he was ready to work with the PSF in a bid to revive the game.

“I will be assisting the PSF to work for the betterment of the game,” said Khan. “I have tailored a plan with the PSF according to which the game will be promoted from the grass-root level.”

The former world champion said he agreed to work with the federation after newly-elected Senior Vice-President Syed Razi Nawab invited all the former players to join hands for the improvement of the game.

“Razi was eager to work for promotion of the game and I agreed because we, the former players, are responsible for the future of this sport.” Khan added he would soon start visiting different parts of the country to scout out budding youngsters aged between 11 and 15.

Offering assistance not services

However, Khan insisted he would not take up the role as a full-time coach. “I’m available to give tips to the players but cannot take responsibility of a coach because it’s a full-time job.”

‘Hard work, fitness key to success’

The former player felt that the youngsters lacked passion and dedication, which he believed are the key to success. “We used to practice for hours but youngsters nowadays lack passion. In squash, fitness holds the key and I believe our players are probably utilising 20 per cent of their fitness currently. Our players enjoy better facilities and support than players from rest of the world do. We also have the best talent and with hard work we can regain our status in a few years.”

Published in The Express Tribune, December 1^st, 2010.