Islamabad, 11 November, 2026 (Kamran Raja): Pakistan has rewarded its four gold medal-winning squash players with cash prizes of Rs1 million each in recognition of their outstanding performance at the 23rd Asian Team Squash Championships. Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination and Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) President Rana Sanaullah Khan distributed a total of Rs4 million among Noor Zaman, Muhammad Asim Khan, Nasir Iqbal and Ashab Irfan during a ceremony held in Islamabad on Wednesday. The players were honoured for securing the men’s team title at the continental championship, held at the Mushaf Squash Complex from November 3 to 7. Pakistan defeated South Korea 2-0 in the final to claim the gold medal, with Noor Zaman overcoming Jeongmin Ryu 11-5, 11-7, 13-11, while Muhammad Asim Khan defeated Seojin Oh 11-6, 11-5, 11-4 to seal the championship for Pakistan. Congratulating the players, coaches and team management, Rana Sanaullah described the victory as a source of national pride and praised the team’s dedication, discipline and determination. He said the government’s recognition of outstanding sporting achievements reflected its commitment to promoting sports and encouraging national talent. Secretary of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, PSB Director General Yawar Hussain and Pakistan Squash Federation Secretary General Group Captain (Retired) Amir Nawaz also attended the ceremony. Wani said the team’s achievement highlighted Pakistan’s sporting potential and would inspire younger generations to excel in sports. Yawar Hussain also praised the players’ performance, expressing hope that the victory would give fresh momentum to squash development across the country. In the women’s competition, Hong Kong China defeated Malaysia 2-1 to secure the gold medal, while Malaysia finished as runners-up. South Korea claimed the silver medal in the men’s event.