IT was a monumental triumph: Noor Zaman came back from the brink to clinch the Under-23 World Squash Championships title, and in the process, revitalised hopes for the sport in Pakistan. This was the first time the World Squash Federation, the game’s global governing body, held an event for the age group. Noor’s 3-2 victory against Karim El Torkey gave the tournament hosts — holding a world championship for the first time in 20 years — a lot to celebrate. The grandson of squash great Qamar Zaman, Noor’s win qualifies him for this year’s PSA World Championships — the sport’s elite tournament. Alongside Hamza Khan, who ended Pakistan’s 37-year wait for the World Junior Squash Championship in 2023, Noor is part of Pakistan’s next generation of promising talent. Not since Jansher Khan triumphed in 1996 has Pakistan seen a world champion; but with Noor, Hamza and Mohammad Ammad — who won the consolation final at the Under-23 championships — there is genuine hope for the drought to end. But how to make that hope a reality? The onus falls on the Pakistan Squash Federation to help the players reach their full potential. In the past several decades, Pakistan has seen many talents fall by the wayside. But the emergence of the current crop presents Pakistan with a new opportunity to return to the top. Opportunities and support for these players should not be lacking at any level.

Due attention also needs to be paid to the women’s game in the country. The Under-23 Championships also provided Pakistan its first-ever women’s tournament where Amna Fayyaz grabbed a silver medal after her loss in the consolation final. With better training and more exposure, Pakistan’s players will do well. Noor’s win is a timely boost for the country ahead of the 2028 Olympics, where squash will feature for the first time. It is a great opportunity for Pakistan, once undisputed kings of world squash, and they should not squander it.

Published in Dawn, April 12th, 2025