Nasir Iqbal Wins Jansher Khan BARD–Markhor Challenger Squash Tournament 2026

The Jansher Khan BARD–Markhor Challenger Squash Tournament 2026 concluded successfully at the Mushaf Squash Complex in the Jinnah Sports Complex, Islamabad.

The championship was held from July 22 to July 25, 2026. It was sponsored by the Bilquis and Abdul Razak Dawood Foundation and the Markhor Squash Foundation, in collaboration with the Pakistan Squash Federation and the Professional Squash Association.

The four-day tournament featured top squash players from across Pakistan. The players demonstrated exceptional talent, determination, and competitive spirit throughout the high-quality competition.

The championship was organized to honor the remarkable legacy of squash legend Jansher Khan. It also provided an important platform for emerging players to compete at a professional level and gain valuable experience and exposure.

Nasir Iqbal faced Anas Ali Shah in the final, which featured an exciting display of world-class squash. Both players competed hard throughout the match, with Nasir Iqbal emerging as the champion.

Iqbal defeated Shah 3-0, winning 11-1, 11-3, and 11-2. The match lasted 15 minutes.

The closing ceremony was attended by former world champion Jansher Khan, along with senior officials from the Pakistan Air Force, the Pakistan Squash Federation, and the Professional Squash Association. They distributed trophies and cash prizes among the winners.

Speaking at the ceremony, Abdul Razak Dawood, president of the BARD Foundation, said:

“It is always inspiring to see young players come together on one platform to showcase their talent while paying tribute to our squash legend, Jansher Khan, whose achievements transformed Pakistan into a global powerhouse in the sport. His remarkable career, including multiple World Championship and British Open titles and reaching World No. 1, continues to inspire generations of athletes.

Tournaments like these provide invaluable opportunities for emerging players to learn, compete, and grow. We remain committed to strengthening Pakistan’s sporting landscape through meaningful public-private partnerships. I congratulate the Pakistan Squash Federation, all participating players, and especially the winners for making this championship a great success.”

Hussain T. Hasan, CEO of the Markhor Squash Foundation, said:

“We are not just sponsoring a tournament—we are investing in Pakistan’s next generation of squash champions. The talent, discipline, and passion displayed throughout this championship have been truly inspiring. Through strategic partnerships, elite coaching, and long-term player development programs, we aim to bridge the gap between local talent and international success, helping Pakistan reclaim its rightful place in world squash.”

The championship reflected the shared commitment of the BARD Foundation, Markhor Squash Foundation, Pakistan Squash Federation, and Professional Squash Association to revive Pakistan’s squash legacy by creating more opportunities for young athletes to compete, develop, and excel on the international stage.