Daily Times

LAHORE: Using his experience, Pakistan WAPDA’s Farhan Mehboob overpowered his brother Waqar Mehboob in the 4th FMC International Squash Championship final at the Punjab Squash Complex here on Saturday. Playing like a champion, Farhan dominated the proceedings throughout not allowing Waqar an inch as the former recorded a comfortable 11-5, 11-3, 11-9 victory in a match lasting 25 minutes. Farhan won the opening game in style as he sought to wind up the contest early. The second game proved more comfortable for breathtaking-looking Farhan who dropped just three points to double the lead, leaving almost no chance for Waqar to make a comeback. And though Waqar did succeed in making the scoreline of the third game 9-9, it was all too late as Farhan using his experience and class finally prevailed upon his rival to register a well-deserved title victory. The final of the championship carrying a total cash prize of $15,000 was witnessed by squash legends Jahangir Khan and Gogi Allauddin. The distinguished guests were welcomed by Punjab Squash Association (PSA) president Amjad Noon Malik. At the prize distribution ceremony, FMC managing director Farooq Shahid was the chief guest and he along with Jahangir gave away prizes to the winners. Speaking on the occasion, Jahangir said: “We are trying to provide fresh and promising talent through our academies, and we are moving towards the right direction. The time is not far away when the young talent emerges at higher level and start winning laurels for Pakistan,” he added. “If the corporate sector starts supporting the game of squash, we will soon succeed in regaining our glory in this sport. The government should also pay attention towards squash by helping players and organisers to earn laurels at international level,” Jahangir emphasised. Farhan, meanwhile, praised the PSA efforts for holding the event, and added that the presence of legends like Jahangir and Gogi during the final made his victory more memorable. “Holding more such events are essential to groom our youngsters for tougher international competitions,” Farhan added.