Pakistan’s rich squash legacy at the British Open will continue with Noor Zaman as the latest main-round entrant from the country.
The 21-year-old beat Egypt’s Kareem El Torkey in the final qualifying match in four tough games: 11-5, 11-8, 3-11, 11-7 to reach the main round of one of the most prestigious squash tournaments in the world.
The match was a repeat of their recent World U23 final, and once again, Noor came out on top. He started strong, winning the first two games with great control and smart shots. El Torkey made a comeback in the third, but Noor kept his cool in the fourth to finish the job after 46 minutes on court.
Noor had already beaten Will Salter and experienced English player Adrian Waller in earlier qualifying rounds. His win over El Torkey now puts him in the main draw of the tournament, where he will play Curtis Malik of England on Sunday.
The British Open is a historic tournament for Pakistan, with Noor Zaman the latest to try and add to the legacy. Legends like Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan once ruled this event, making Pakistan the top squash nation in the world for decades with 30 titles and 25 runner-up finishes in the championship. Noor’s entry into the main round is a sign that Pakistani squash could be on the rise again.
Noor Zaman, the grandson of squash great Qamar Zaman, is touted by many as Pakistan’s next great squash hope. His performance is bringing back memories of the country’s glory days in the sport.
The tournament offers $280,000 in prize money, but for Noor and Pakistan, this moment is about much more than money. It’s about pride, history, and showing the world that Pakistan can still produce world-class squash players.
Now all eyes will be on Noor Zaman as he begins his main draw journey. If he can keep up his strong form, he might just become the new face of Pakistani squash.
