THE Covid-19 outbreak has once again struck the Asian squash calendar with two major events called off.
The Asian Team Championships in Bukit Jalil on March 25-29 and the Asian Junior Championships in Qingdao, China on June 29-July 3 are the two events that have been wiped out.
Despite earlier allaying fears of the Asian Teams being called off, Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) director Mejar (Rtd) S. Maniam admitted they have no choice in light of the growing concerns of the virus outbreak.
“The Asian Squash Federation (ASF) called us on Saturday and asked if it would be possible to call off the event,” explained Maniam yesterday.
“We agreed and we notified all related parties today (yesterday) after everything was approved by our executive board.
“It is unfortunate, but we do not have a choice as we are bound by the effects of the virus with several other events also getting called off.
“We are however still keen to host the event this year and the next possible window of opportunity for it would probably be in June or July when the PSA Tour is on its summer break.
“As for the Asian Juniors, the ASF informed us that they still intend to run it this year, but maybe at a much later date.”
Maniam also urged the national players to stay focused in training despite all the cancellations.
“Planning and schedules are definitely affected, but the players still have to train as usual.
“Without the Asian Teams, there could be other PSA tournaments for them to participate in,” added Maniam.