New Delhi: The Asian Team Squash Championship, scheduled to be played in Islamabad in April, has been postponed amid the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region. The tournament was scheduled to be played from April 14 to 18.
According to an official, the decision was taken by the Asian Squash Federation as it is not possible to hold the event due to ongoing tensions in the region.
“The Asian Squash Federation has informed us that it is not feasible to hold the event at this time because of the conflict and the resulting situation in the region,” said an official as quoted by PTI.
He further added that if the situation changes, then the Pakistan Squash Federation will look at a window in September to organise the tournament. As per the PTI, the official was also asked if the Indian Squash Federation agreed to send its team for the tournament, and he said that the confirmation of teams participating in the championship is being handled by the continental body.
The official also said that the PSF had guaranteed the safety and security of all participating teams and players after getting the hosting rights.
PSL 2026 to be played behind closed doors
The 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be played behind closed doors, with Lahore and Karachi hosting 22 matches each. The decision was taken due to the fuel crisis amid the ongoing conflict. Earlier, the tournament was scheduled to be held in six venues, but the plan has changed due to the current situation.
“We decided that as long as this crisis is ongoing, we will not have crowds at matches. This was a difficult decision, but it needed to be made. The opening ceremony will also be cancelled,” PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said on Sunday.
There are no changes to the dates of any matches, and the tournament will start on March 26 with defending champions Lahore Qalandars facing debutant franchise Hyderabad Kingsmen at the Gaddafi Stadium.