sanaullahA New Chapter in Pakistan’s Legendary Squash History
Pakistan, once the undisputed powerhouse of international squash, is witnessing a remarkable resurgence with Noor Zaman, a 20-year-old prodigy, leading the charge. Following his dominant victory at the Under-23 World Championship, Noor is now preparing to make a powerful statement at the British Open, one of the most prestigious and grueling events in global squash.
Representing a dynasty of squash royalty, Noor carries not only the weight of personal ambition but also the legacy of generations. With his grandfather Qamar Zaman, the 1975 British Open Champion and former World No. 1, as his mentor, Noor steps onto the court with history behind him and the future before him.
Historic British Open Appearance: A Turning Point for Pakistani Squash
Noor’s qualification for the British Open main draw via the qualifiers marks a monumental achievement — the first time in years that a Pakistani player has done so without direct entry. This accomplishment becomes even more significant when considering the calibre of competition he overcame, including a resounding win over Egypt’s Karim El-Torkey, a former World No. 25.
El-Torkey, notably, was also Noor’s final opponent in the U23 World Championship — a match that showcased Noor’s mental resilience and strategic brilliance. These back-to-back victories reflect a player not just rising but roaring onto the international stage.
Building Momentum After World Championship Triumph
Noor’s impressive performance in the World Championship in Chicago solidified his credentials as a top-tier talent. By defeating Abdullah Al-Tamimi, the world No. 20 from Qatar, Noor proved he belongs among the elite. Though he was eventually bested by Egypt’s World No. 7 Karim Abdel Gawad, the experience added a crucial layer to his development — the taste of high-stakes squash at the highest level.
What makes this ascent even more compelling is the combination of discipline, mentorship, and relentless drive. Noor’s journey reflects the values instilled in him from a young age, and his performances are now echoing on squash courts around the world.
A Legacy Carved in Sweat and Discipline
Noor’s story is one of familial legacy and personal determination. Born into a family deeply entrenched in squash greatness, including uncles Mansoor Zaman (former World No. 11) and Shahid Zaman (former World No. 14), the expectation was immense. His father, also a professional squash player and coach, and most significantly, his grandfather Qamar Zaman, laid down the framework.
According to Noor, the early years were a trial of endurance and discipline. “I didn’t enjoy it at first,” he admitted. “There was too much running, too much pressure. But my grandfather was strict — in the best way possible. He believed in me before I even understood the sport.”
It was this structured upbringing, rooted in rigorous training and psychological toughness, that forged Noor into the athlete he is today.
Modern Inspirations: Blending Tradition With New Age Excellence
Though Noor reveres squash titans like Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan, his admiration extends to modern greats such as Ali Farag, the Egyptian maestro and former World No. 1 who recently announced his retirement.
“Ali Farag’s elegance and intelligence on court were unmatched,” said Noor. “He’s a role model not just for his success but for the way he approached the game — smart, calm, and graceful.”
This blend of traditional discipline and modern finesse is evident in Noor’s playing style. He combines tactical precision, court coverage, and mental agility — traits that have allowed him to compete with, and defeat, players from the top echelons of the sport.
Institutional Support: Pakistan Air Force Reviving Squash Ambitions
An essential ingredient in Noor’s ascent has been the renewed focus and investment from the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), which now oversees the Pakistan Squash Federation. Under the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, the PAF has injected life into a sport that had long suffered from neglect and underfunding.
The result has been a tangible improvement in infrastructure, training programs, and international exposure for emerging players like Noor. “Things are finally moving in the right direction,” Noor noted. “With proper facilities, tournaments, and coaching, we now have the chance to compete and succeed at the highest levels.”
This kind of institutional commitment is vital. For years, Pakistani squash talent withered on the vine due to a lack of opportunities. But now, under the PAF’s stewardship, there’s a renewed pipeline for nurturing stars who can once again dominate the global squash scene.
A Revival of Pakistan’s Squash Glory on the Horizon
Noor Zaman’s rise is not just a personal triumph — it’s symbolic of a broader renaissance in Pakistani squash. From the days of Jahangir Khan’s unmatched 555-match winning streak to Jansher Khan’s era of dominance, Pakistan was the center of the squash universe.
That golden age dimmed due to mismanagement, lack of vision, and declining facilities. But now, with players like Noor leading the charge and support systems reinvigorated, the path back to greatness looks promising.
Noor himself believes that with sustained support, more titles are on the horizon. “We have the talent,” he said. “What we lacked was backing. Now we have it. If this continues, Insha’Allah, we will reclaim our place among the world’s best.”
The Road Ahead: Eyes Set on Global Dominance
As Noor steps onto the court at the British Open, he carries with him not only his personal ambition but the hopes of a nation yearning for squash revival. Every serve, volley, and drop shot will be watched with pride by fans back home — and with caution by his opponents.
This tournament could well be the moment where Pakistan’s new squash era begins — not with nostalgia, but with performance. Noor Zaman has already shown he has the grit, the heritage, and the fire. Now, it’s time to prove it on the sport’s grandest stages.