"Without Four Hours of Practice and Obsession, You Cannot Become a Champion": Former World No. 2 Mohibullah Khan Laments Decline in Pakistan Squash

 

Musarat Ullah Jan kikxNow, Digital Creator

PESHAWAR, Pakistan: Former World No. 2 squash player and veteran coach Mohibullah Khan believes Pakistan's decline in world squash is not due to a lack of talent, but because today's players no longer possess the discipline, work ethic, and passion that once made the country a dominant force in the sport.

Speaking in an interview, the former international star criticized the training habits of the current generation, saying many players spend only an hour training in the morning and another hour in the evening, while remaining distracted by their mobile phones.

"If they keep standing with mobile phones in their hands, they will make a name on social media, not in squash," Mohibullah said.

Comparing the present era with his own playing days, he said he trained for two hours every morning and another two hours every evening. Even today, he advises young players to practice for at least four hours daily and develop an obsession with the sport.

"You have to play squash with passion. I even played on my wedding day before going to the ceremony because success only comes through continuous hard work," he said.

Mohibullah recalled the advice of former Pakistan Air Force chief Air Marshal Noor Khan, a key figure in the development of Pakistan squash.

"He always told us that a coach can only guide a player. A coach cannot inject determination into someone. If the passion isn't there, nothing can make you a champion," he said.

According to Mohibullah, today's athletes have access to facilities, modern equipment, and squash courts that his generation could only dream of. Yet, he believes their lack of discipline and commitment prevents them from reaching the highest level.

"Young players come to the courts, but many are not fully focused on the game," he said.

Reflecting on his own career, Mohibullah paid tribute to his elder brother and squash legend Jansher Khan, who played a crucial role in his development.

"He would practice for six hours without ever saying he was tired. Instead, he would ask for stronger players to train with so he could improve even more," Mohibullah recalled.

Now serving as a coach with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports Directorate, after previously working as a Director at the Pakistan Sports Board, Mohibullah said the difference between generations extends beyond attitude.

"In our time, the rackets were smaller and the players were bigger. Today, the rackets are bigger, but the players have become smaller," he remarked with a smile.

Despite his criticism, the former world No. 2 remains optimistic about Pakistan's future in squash.

"If I am given complete authority, eight qualified trainers, and three years, I can produce another world champion for Pakistan," he claimed.

Born on July 21, 1956, Mohibullah Khan began his sporting journey in Peshawar as a tennis ball boy before rising through determination and relentless training to become one of the world's finest squash players. He reached World No. 2 during the late 1970s and represented Pakistan with distinction, winning numerous international titles.

Mohibullah believes Pakistan still has the talent to reclaim its place among the world's squash powers, but only if young players are willing to embrace the sacrifices, discipline, and relentless training that defined the country's golden era.

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