Pakistan beat Hong Kong to reach Asian games squash final

Pakistan beat Hong Kong to reach Asian games squash final

Pakistan defeated Hong Kong 2-1 in the men’s team squash semi-final at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena on Thursday to reach the Asian Games 2026 final and secure at least a silver medal.

The victory gives Pakistan a chance to win their first Asian Games squash team gold since 2010. They will face either India or Malaysia in the final.

Pakistan had entered the semi-final after beating South Korea in the quarter-final on Wednesday. That victory had already guaranteed Pakistan their third Asian Games medal in the team squash event.

World No. 33 Noor Zaman faced Hong Kong’s experienced Tsz Kwan Lau in the opening match. Noor fought hard in a closely contested first game, saving a game point before winning 12-10.

Lau responded strongly in the second game, racing to a 10-3 lead before closing it out 11-3 to level the match.

The Hong Kong veteran continued his momentum in the third game, recovering from an early deficit to win 11-6. Lau then completed the comeback with an 11-5 victory in the fourth game, giving Hong Kong a 1-0 lead in the tie.

Pakistan fought back through Mohammad Ashab Irfan, who faced world No. 57 Chi Hin Henry Leung. Ashab overcame an early setback and quickly established control, moving from 1-1 to a 4-1 lead before extending his advantage to 8-2.

Ashab’s determined performance brought Pakistan level and kept their hopes of reaching the final alive.