SYDNEY: Pakistani junior Squash players expressed remarkable performances at the Australian Junior Open by clinching five medals in different age categories, highlighting the country’s potential in the sport.
The Ali sisters stand high on the winning podium with two gold and one silver medal for the country, with Mahnoor and Mehwish defending their titles from the previous year.
Mahnoor Ali dominated the Girls Under-13 final, defeating Ryo Kuwabata in straight sets by scores of 11-2, 11-5, and 11-6 to win her international championship. Her older sister, Mehwish Ali, won the Girls Under-17 category, defeating Aideen Elmajo with scores of 11-5, 11-5, and 11-7. Their younger sister, Sehrish Ali, also advanced to the Under-15 final but lost in a tight battle, securing second position.
Azzan Ali Khan defeated Henry Cross, claiming the first spot in the boys Under 17 title with a dominant straight set victory of 3-0. In another category of boys under 11, Ahmed Ali Naz defeated Freddie Goldsmith to win the medal.
Earlier this month, Noor Zaman was crowned men’s champion at the U23 World Squash Championship in Karachi, 3-2, after a stellar comeback against Egypt’s Karim El Torkey.
Pakistani players’ victory in many categories is a significant milestone for the country’s squash renaissance at the junior level. It also demonstrates the depth of fresh potential, particularly among female athletes making their mark in international contests.
