Nagoya: Pakistani squash players Noor Zaman and Muhammad Ashab Irfan have advanced to the semi-finals of the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya 2026, marking a significant achievement for Pakistan in the sport. This development comes after 17 years, as both players secured victories in their respective quarter-final matches, ensuring Pakistan's presence on the medal table in the individual event of squash at the Asian Games.

According to Pakistan Squash Federation, Noor Zaman defeated Hong Kong’s Chi Hin Henry Leung in a 3-1 match, with scores of 11-7, 11-6, 3-11, and 11-4 in a 28-minute contest. Muhammad Ashab Irfan, in a similar fashion, won against India’s Veer Chotrani, also with a 3-1 scoreline, managing 6-11, 11-8, 11-3, and 11-3 over 41 minutes. Meanwhile, in mixed doubles, the Pakistani duo of Muhammad Asim Khan and Mehwish Ali was defeated by Hong Kong’s Yee Lam Toby Tse and Cheuk Nam Lai in straight sets, 11-6 and 11-7.

The semi-final matches are scheduled for tomorrow at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena. Muhammad Ashab Irfan will face India’s Abhay Singh, while Noor Zaman will compete against Malaysia’s Eain Yow Ng. The matches are set for 14:45 PM and 16:15 PM JST, respectively. This development is a promising sign for Pakistan squash, as both players vie for medals in the ongoing tournament.