International squash event postponed after Lahore attack

Karachi, March 5 : Pakistan's squash fraternity received a setback Thursday when a world ranking tournament which was to be played in Islamabad next month was postponed following an attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore earlier this week.

"Following Tuesday's attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, the Professional Squash Association (PSA) has acted speedily to postpone the next major PSA Tour event to be staged in Pakistan," a PSA statement said.

A Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) spokesman said that the postponement is a disappointing development but hoped that things will improve soon after which the tournament would be held in a befitting manner.

The COAS International, which has attracted many of the world's top players over the past six years, was due to take place in Islamabad in April.

"On behalf of everyone associated with the PSA, we have passed on our deepest regret to all at Pakistan Squash Federation following the frightening event involving the Sri Lankan cricket team that has just occurred in Lahore," said PSA CEO Alex Gough in a letter to members.

"In the light of this occurrence, and the fact that it specifically targeted non-nationals that were under protective guard, it is with deep regret that PSA are going to have to postpone the COAS International in Islamabad and going forward we will have to review the registration of any upcoming events in Pakistan," he said.

--IANS