ISLAMABAD - Egyptian Rowan Elarby said Pakistan is completely safe for all kinds of sporting activities and she will come again and again to play in Pakistan.

Talking to the Nation, Rowan, who lifted the $10,000 International Squash Tournament for Women title said she was very happy to win the title and it was really amazing feeling.

“Nada and I train together, we play together and she is my best buddy. But training is something else and playing in the tournament final is completely different. We both played superb squash and fortunately, I was able to beat her,” she said about her final opponent.

She said it was not an easy victory as people see the score that read 3-0 but she is a tremendous fighter and she gave her all and luckily, I was able to counter her moves.

She said the Pakistani players were also good but they needed to train hard and play international tournaments to further enhance their skills and stand chances of winning PSA tournaments. Rowan said it was her second trip to Pakistan as last year she also participated but could not win and was already looking forward to come and play again here.

“It is the only my second year on professional circuit and I had managed to put some titles under my belt including the world junior title, which is really an amazing achievement. But this is just the beginning. I know how far I had to go to be able to challenge the top players including my compatriots, who are winning titles and are presently occupying top positions in the PSA rankings.”

“I had started playing squash with an aim to become world champion and I am learning with each passing day. I am glad, despite hectic schedule, I decided to come and play in Pakistan and the title will not only boost my confidence also help me gain much-needed PSA points  and would do wonders for me in my future endeavours.”

She said squash in modern times was changing fast and one had to be very tough, competitive and ready to face tough opponents. “We are highly fortunate to have world champions back home, who are also very helpful to youngsters like me. I am only 18 and I know there is still a long way to go before I could fulfil my ambitions of becoming world number 1,” Rowan concluded.