Abdullah Nawaz cruises into third round of World Junior Squash Championship

KARACHI: Pakistan’s Abdullah Nawaz delivered an impressive performance to advance to the third round of the World Junior Squash Championship at the Black Ball Sporting Club in New Cairo on Tuesday.

In the second round, Abdullah defeated Canada’s Riyan Paliwal in straight sets, winning 3–0. The scoreline of his victory was 11–6, 11–6 and 11–3.

Nawaz stormed into the pre-quarter-finals on the back of dominant performances, was completely outclassed by Hawal, losing 11-6, 11-5 and 11-2.

His ouster marked the end of Pakistan’s journey in the individual competition of the World Junior Squash Championship.

The national players will now gear up for the team competitions, scheduled to commence on July 27.

Nawaz got off to a flying start to his campaign as he registered back-to-back straight sets victories in his first two matches against Macau’s Keng In Leong and Canada’s Rohan Paliwal and consequently booked his spot in the third round.

He faced a notable fightback in the third-round match against USA’s Oscar Okonkwo, who tested his nerves with a gritty performance.

Nawaz, however, prevailed 3-1 as he responded by winning two consecutive frames after dropping the second set. The scoreline of his victory was 11-8, 10-12, 11-7 and 11-2.

The World Junior Individual Squash Championships are being held under the auspices of the World Squash Federation, showcasing the top emerging talent from around the globe.

Pakistani squash players will return to action in Egypt as they prepare for the World Junior Team Squash Championship, which is set to begin on July 27.