By Digital Spartans 
Pakistan’s rising squash stars Hamza Khan and Noor Zaman have powered their way into the final of the CAS–Serena Hotels International Squash Championship, setting up a long-awaited all-Pakistan title clash at the Mushaf Squash Complex in Islamabad.
The semifinals on Thursday showcased two very different paths to the final. Former British Junior Open champion Hamza Khan delivered a gritty, hard-fought performance against Switzerland’s David Bernet. Meanwhile, World Under-23 champion Noor Zaman produced a dominant and clinical display to overwhelm former national No. 1 Nasir Iqbal.
Hamza, widely regarded as Pakistan’s next big hope in world squash, needed 53 minutes to secure a 3-1 victory. He opened strong with an 11-8 win in the first game but faltered in the second, losing 11-13 after a tight exchange. Regaining momentum, Hamza edged the third game 12-10 before sealing the fourth 11-5 with decisive stroke play and superior court control.
The thrilling semifinal was attended by squash legend and eight-time world champion Jansher Khan, Pakistan Squash Federation Secretary Air Commodore (R) Amir Nawaz, representatives from Serena Hotels, and a large number of fans who cheered loudly for the home favourite.
In contrast, Noor Zaman—the grandson of squash great Qamar Zaman—produced a commanding performance in the second semifinal. He dismantled Nasir Iqbal in straight games, winning 11-4 and 11-1 before Nasir retired hurt ahead of the third game. Noor’s sharp footwork, pinpoint drop shots, and relentless pressure gave his opponent no room to recover.
His emphatic eight-minute win highlights the growing dominance of Pakistan’s next squash generation and reinforces the Zaman family’s enduring legacy in the sport.
With both young stars now set to face off in Friday’s final, the event marks a return of Pakistan’s traditional strength in squash—a sport the country once ruled globally. Fans are anticipating a thrilling clash between Hamza’s tactical consistency and Noor’s explosive attacking play.
Match Results:
Hamza Khan (PAK) bt [6] David Bernet (SUI) 3-1: 11-9, 11-13, 12-10, 11-5 (53m)
[2] Noor Zaman (PAK) bt Nasir Iqbal (PAK) 11-4, 11-1, 0-0 retired hurt (8m)