Pakistan’s squash legacy came alive in the 2024 WSF World Squash Team Championships as the six-time champions staged a dramatic comeback to defeat host nation Hong Kong, China in a gripping Pool H encounter.
Despite entering the tournament as [9/12] seeds, Pakistan showed their fighting spirit, toppling the No.8-seeded hosts to take control of Pool H in the men’s event.
The deciding clash on the all-glass court unfolded in front of an energetic home crowd. Alex Lau, the hometown hero, gave Hong Kong, China an early advantage with a tense 64-minute win over Asim Khan. Lau clinched the match with scores of 11-5, 7-11, 11-9, 11-13, 11-4, leaving Pakistan with a mountain to climb.
However, Noor Zaman, a rising 20-year-old star, showcased exceptional determination and skill. Zaman pulled Pakistan level with a remarkable five-game victory over his opponent from Hong Kong, finishing 11-7, 8-11, 11-5, 4-11, 6-11.
With the tie finely poised, it came down to Nasir Iqbal to deliver the decisive win. The experienced player rose to the occasion, dominating Chi Him Wong with an emphatic 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 triumph to propel Pakistan to the top of Pool H.
With this victory, Pakistan now leads Pool H ahead of their final group-stage match against Italy. The win also marked an impressive return for the former champions, who are competing in the championship for the first time since 2017 and are hunting for their first title since 1993.
| Group H | P | W | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Hong Kong, China | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Peru | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Italy | 2 | 0 | 0 |
After sealing the victory for Pakistan, Nasir Iqbal expressed pride in representing Pakistan at the World Squash Team Championships against teams like Hong Kong, China.
We are so proud to be representing Pakistan. When we get on the court, we are so energetic because we are representing our country. After a long break, we’re back playing, and we’re all giving 200 percent. Noor Zaman is playing so well, and in the third match, there was a lot of pressure on me.
Pakistan’s thrilling performance on Day 1 reinforces their determination to reclaim their status as a global squash powerhouse.
