Two young squash stars eyeing international glory

PESHAWAR: In a strategic effort to revive Pakistan’s once-dominant squash legacy, renowned coach Asad Khalil Ullah is intensively preparing two of the country’s brightest young stars Hamza Khan and Noor Zaman at the international stage, including the high-stakes PSA Pro Tour and the upcoming Under-23 World Championships.

Coach Asad Khalil Ullah, a respected figure in Pakistan’s squash circles, is known for his meticulous approach to player development. With a strong focus on technical refinement, physical conditioning, and mental toughness, Khalil has mentored numerous promising players, earning a reputation as a master tactician in the sport.

Now, with global tournaments looming, Khalil has turned his focus to shaping Khan and Zaman into world-class athletes. His hands-on coaching signals a renewed push to restore Pakistan’s stature in international squash.

Hamza Khan, hailed for his explosive speed and aggressive play style, has already made waves on the junior circuit. His crowning achievement came at the 2023 World Junior Squash Championship, where he clinched the title in a commanding display of tactical intelligence and stamina.

Now training under Khalil’s sharp eye, Khan is refining his skills and gearing up for his transition into the senior circuit. Analysts believe his trajectory could see him become the face of Pakistan’s squash resurgence.

On the other side of the court, Noor Zaman—a name steeped in squash history—is also making his mark. The grandson of squash legend Qamar Zaman, Noor has carried the legacy forward with poise, reaching the final of the British Junior Open and showing promise in multiple PSA Challenger events.

His gameplay, a fusion of calculated power and precision, is being further polished under Khalil’s supervision. Zaman is seen as a strong medal contender for the U23 World Championships.

With a packed PSA calendar ahead, Khan and Zaman are currently undergoing a rigorous training regimen led by Khalil, focusing not just on technique, but on cultivating mental resilience for the global stage.

“These boys have the hunger, and they have the talent,” said Khalil. “What we’re doing now is building the mental and strategic game to match their physical prowess.

As Pakistan eyes a comeback in the global squash arena, the performances of Hamza Khan and Noor Zaman will be closely watched. Their rise, under the strategic guidance of Asad Khalil Ullah, offers renewed hope for fans and aspiring athletes across the country.

Their success could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan’s storied squash history—a chapter defined by discipline, determination, and the dream of once again dominating the world stage.

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