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Adil In Final Qualifying of Vancouver OpenDubai based Adil Maqbool reached the final qualifying round of second major squash tournament of the 2008 circuit. Playing in the fast growing $30000 Comfort Inn Vancouver Open being held Vancouver, Canada, Adil overcame his Canadian opponent in straight sets. He drew Canada's Matthew Serediak who is a former Canadian National Junior champion. The match was relatively sort being less than 30minutes which Adil won 11-9, 11-6 and 11-4. "As usual, it was a new court so it took me a game to get to used to it but then in the second it was fine and I was hitting the ball well.". Adil next plays fellow country man Yasir Butt, a former world number 42, currently ranked 72 for a place in the main round of the event. The Preston University student is participating in his second international event of the 2008 calendar after making it to the main round of the prestigious Tournament of Champions in New York last week. Maqbool Edges into the Tournament Of ChampionsDubai based Adil Maqbool made it to his first major events main round by winning his final qualifying round of his first international squash tournament of the 2008 circuit.
The next two games were exchanged with Clieve wining the third 11-9 and then Adil taking the next 11-8. The fifth game was an evenly contested game in which both the players were tested to their extremes. Adil took an early lead of 4-1 before Clieve took 7 points in a row to take a huge lead. At 10-7 Clieve served with four match balls in his hand which Adil saved and managed to win the match on the first match ball he got after taking the game to a tie break wining it 14-12. "This is the best performance of my life. I have managed to reach the main round of one of the biggest events on the PSA tour and that's a really big achievement for me. I am playing a much tougher opponent next after a days rest. Hopefully I will be able to recover. " Adil Makes It to Final Qualifying of Tournament Of Champions December 29, Edinburgh: 10 Year Old, Dubai-based, Sandeep Ramachandran won his first International title at the Scottish Junior Open Squash Championships being held at the Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland. Sandeep, an Indian by birth, won the Boys Under 11 title outclassing all his opponents in straight sets through the tournament. Trained by Maqbool Khawaja, Sandeep easily outclassed his opponents prompting the coach of the Scottish team to compliment Sandeep for his " amazing squash".
Some Photos of Al Nasr Squash:
Some Information regarding the upcoming Saudi International in Al Khobar
Young Aamir, Jaffer upset yet again
19-year-old top seed Maqbool, the UAE men's Number 1 since 2001, on the other hand, crushed Jordan's Ala Harb in less than fifteen minutes 11-3, 11-4 and 11-3. “I have been training a lot alone since I came back from Egypt and all my shots actually seem to fall exactly where I want then to.” The Pakistani will now have to play against Iraq's Ahmed Jaffer on his home court. “I train at the Lifestyle Health Club, and maybe that's why I am so confident with my shots here.” Maqbool, Rafi Ease Into Dunlop Closed Satellite Quarterfinal
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Andrew Nicole (front) v. Yasir Khan |
England's Andrew Nichole kept his hopes alive of making it to his second PSA Closed Final with a comfortable straight games win over Pakistani teenager Yasir Khan with a score of 11-2, 11-7 and 11-7. Nicole now meets Yasin Amjad who got past Neeraj Makhija. Pakistan's second seed Saqib Rafi Khan resisted the challenge of compatriot Waqas Salahuddin also winning his match in straight games with a score of 11-5, 11-5 and 11-8. The qualifying of this PSA event were conducted on Tuesday with Waleed Hameed, Ahmed Dada, Yasin Amjad and Yasir Khan making into the main event from the 16 players who took part in the qualifiers. This is the fourth such event of its type, a PSA National Closed Satellite, being organized in the United Arab Emirates in the last 6 months. Although it is a national event organized along with the UAESRA, now with a new category of tournaments introduced by the Professional Squash Association, it is being recognized internationally as part of the PSA tour and allows World Ranking players to earn points from the event. |
Along with this senior event, the All UAE Junior National Squash Open is also taking place in which over 65 girls and boys between the ages of 11 and 17 years have entered. The Finals of all the junior age categories are set to take place at the Lifestyle Health Club's squash courts on Saturday, 6th of October, starting from 5pm with the Senior Professional's Final at 9pm. Dunlop is the title sponsor of the tournament, with Pocari Sweat being the Official Drink.
Al Nasr Leisureland postponed the upcoming junior squash tournament which was scheduled on 4th to 6th October 2007 to 18th to 20th Oct 2007, due to clashes on dates at Sofitel hotel tournament on same day.
"Sorry for any inconvenience" Say the ANL Organizers.
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Dunlop All UAE Junior Squash Open
@ Sofitel, City Center, Dubai |
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4th PSA Closed Satellite Championship
@ Sofitel, City Center, Dubai |
Note the Ramadan Tournaments in the Events section on the left of this page if you're desperate to play...
and just for fun: watch a video of Captain Underpants, of the famous DCC Flyers, in a training session.
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Less than 19 years after his birth in Abu Dhabi, UAE national number one Khawaja Adil Maqbool has celebrated his 27th National Senior title by winning two national finals in one night. Maqbool won the Dunlop backed PSA National Closed Satellite Circuit No.3, at the Dubai Country Club and then went on to win his 5th Abu Dhabi Open final later in the evening, at the Sheraton Club in Abu Dhabi. Winning his first at the age of 12, in the last 7 years Adil has only lost one national event's final in 2004, and has been unbeaten since then. Top seed Maqbool, based in Ajman, who completed his final year of A' levels earlier this month at the Ibn Seena English High School, faced Aamir Khan, the unseeded teenager, who upset the seeds earlier in the week, in the tournament in the climax of the PSA Closed Satellite event. |
Aamir took the first point of the match but did not seem to be able to cope with Adil's pace throughout the match, which got over in less than 25 minutes. Maqbool won the final in convincing staright games winning 11-3, 11-5 and 11-2.
Adil was full of praise of the fifteen year old from Abu Dhabi, as he said, “I have known Aamir since he was a very small kid, and comparing with last year he has improves tremendously. I do recon the UAE will see a lot of this kid in the near future.”
“I was really very stiff the day before form my quarter final and semi final, however I was able to get through. But today I was just too tired. Four days of playing tough games, does take its toll. Adil played a very tight game and I tried but ran out of steam. ”, Rafi added after the final.
Commenting on the tournament, the chairman of the UAESRA Andy Stains expressed his delight on the fact that the top players of the country competed in it allowing the spectators of the use to watch some quality squash. As Chairman of the DCC he also said that he was pleased that the tournament was held at the Country Club.
Maqbool finished at number 81 last year, but had to spend time preparing for his A Level examinations. A string of steady performances including two quarter finals in Iran and Canada, and this win which gives Maqbool 43.75 points for the world rankings will hopefully get him back into the top-100 in July, after six months off the circuit.
Maqbool, formerly ranked Number one is the world in the Under 13, 15 and 17 age groups, plans on playing squash full time from June onwards once his A' level exams get over, “I am going to Egypt in July to train for the British Open and the World Open next year.”
Final Results of Tournament are
15 year old Aamir Khan, upset two higher seeds in the DUNLOP backed PSA NATIONAL CLOSED SATELLITE in one day to book himself a place in the final against UAE Number 1, Khawaja Adil Maqbool.
Aamir was very confident playing in his first senior tournament away from his home in Abu Dhabi fought till the very end to upset the second seed of the event Saqib Rafi 3-2 in the quarter final. Winning the first after it went to tie break, Saqib relaxed a little too much and found him self 1-2 down as Aamir produced some fascinating shots. Aamir at match ball at 10-6 in the fourth seemed all set to finish off the match however his older compatriot saved 4 match balls to take the game and take the match into a decider. Aamir kept his cool and played flawless squash to reach 10-5 once again but this time after losing just one pint was able to wrap up the match to have his biggest National win.
During the match Saqib Rafi who beat Aamir the precious day in the Abu Dhabi Open semifinal, did complain of injury and did seem a bit ragged on court. However he did add that he did not want to take any credit away from Rafi who played an excellent game and worked really hard for the win.
Playing his semifinal match back-to-back Aamir then went on to beat the squash pro of Al-Nasr club dropping just one game in the process. Faheem, the seventh seed, won the first game 11-9; however Aamir then used some of his hard hitting strokes and outclassed Faheem after winning the second which went to a tie break. Aamir once again played a game well above his age and then went on to win the next two 11-9 and 11-9 to reach his first ever UAE National squash final.
19-year-old top seed Maqbool, the UAE men's Number 1 since 2001, on the other hand, crushed Iraq's Ahmed Jaffer in less than fifteen minutes 11-3, 11-3 and 11-2. Having finished his A' levels earlier this month, Maqbool seemed sharp once again and keeping it fast did not allow Jaffer into the game.
“I have been training a bit now for a week and am glad that I can finally train now as my studies are over.” The Pakistani will now have to play two finals in one day; the first of this event at 3pm and then travel all the way to Abu Dhabi, in order to try and in his fifth Abu Dhabi crown.
Maqbool, who recently reached the quarter finals of two PSA Tour events in Canada and Iran, hopes to better his best World Ranking of 81, from July onwards when he will participate in the HELIOPOLIS ROTARY OPEN in Egypt and then the British Open in September.
The Chairman of UAE Squash Racquet Association, Andy Stains on this particular PSA event says, “Great to see a good level of squash played by a good mix of nationalities. And as chairman of DCC, as well, we are very pleased to have this tournament played here at the DCC.”
Dunlop is the title sponsor of the tournament.
UAE's Number 1 squash player Khawaja Adil Maqbool, reached closer to his 26th National title after brushing aside the challenge of Alan Hicks in the quarter final of the DUNLOP backed PSA CLOSED SATELLITE CIRCUIT No. 3, winning comfortably 11-4, 11-8, and 11-5.
Playing his quarter final at 4pm, Maqbool then traveled to Abu Dhabi to play the Abu Dhabi Open's semi-final which he won against Mosin Musa in straight sets and now will again face Saqib Rafi in the final in Abu Dhabi.
Iraq's Ahmed Jaffer got past Ajay Vase of India in the quarter final, defeating him in a close encounter which lasted over an hour. Losing the first game 12-10 after it went to tie break, Ahmed came back to win the next two 11-8 11-5, before letting the fourth slip away 11-9. Ahmed determined in the fifth proved the seeding right by winning the game and the match 11-7.
Ahmed now faces Adil Maqbool in the semifinal.
Seventh seed Faheem Khan, survived a tough duel against India's Neeraj Makhija. This match too lasted over an hour and saw some good quality squash, with Faheem taking the first 11-8 and then lost the second 10-12 before taking the next 11-6. Faheem again left the fourth as Neeraj bounced back, taking the game 11-6. In the fifth the two players battled point for point till 5-all before Faheem produced some brilliant drop shots to finish off the game11-8.
Faheem's opponent in the semi final will be the winner of the match between to talented teenagers, Saqib Rafi, the second seed of the event and 15 year old Aamir Khan form Abu Dhabi. Aamir Khan playing is his first PSA Closed Satallite in Dubai, earlier upset seeded Waqas Hanif in the first round with an astounding 3-0 victory.
This is the third event of its type, a PSA National Closed Satellite, being organized in the United Arab Emirates. Although it is a national event being organized along with the UAESRA, now with a new category of tournaments introduced by the Professional Squash Association, it is being recognized internationally as part of the PSA tour and allows World Ranking players to earn points from the event.
Results are here.
June 1st Deadline - registration form is here.
Contact:
May 24th - 26th 2007
The DCC Squash 3's are Over...results are here
If you didn't see it you've missed the best (professional level, and fun) squash you will ever see! 365 days to the next one...
Cancel your travel plans, tell your family you're not available, take sick leave from your work!!
Come and watch the best Squash of the year! International and local players battle it out at the World Renowned DCC 3's.
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19-year-old top seed Maqbool, the UAE men's Number 1 since 2001, defeated fellow Pakistani Rehman Mughees, the No4 seed, 11-3, 11-5, and 11-1 in less than 20 minutes to reach his 25th consecutive national senior final. Keeping it fast and not allowing Mughees into the game, the number 1 seed had a short explosive work out before finishing the match quickly. Maqbool, who recently reached the quarter finals of two PSA Tour events in Canada and Iran, hopes to better his best World Ranking of 81, from June onwards, once he finishes his A' level exams for which he is preparing at the Ibn Seena English High School added, “Winning this final will probably be the best national win for me since the first in 2001 as I will complete 25 national senior title wins. Winning on this court would be the sweetest for me as I played my life's first tournament on this court when I was 4 and half years old and I had lost back then.” |
Item of interest to league old timers and Dubaisquash History buffs: Origins of Squash Raquets in Dubai (and also a great site for old Dubai information, links and photos...)
A slighly ambitious Janes team made the not so distant trip away to Wafi Pharoahs for what was to be a complete white washing due to an outclassing of the utmost kind. Not surprising given that the only reason why the Pharoahs are plumbing the depths of the 4th Div is because they're all too busy being busy to regularly turn out a full side and not because they lack the skills or the nouse to be in Div 3 or even 2.
First up was the Cap, whose recent fitness level has had personal trainers the world over clammering for her services as the 'before' version, although that didn't stop her from smiling her way to a resounding 3-0 defeat and a friendly reminder from the rest of her team mates to call the odd let when faced with a brick wall which intermittently sprung up amid the rare rallies.
Next to bat was our favourite No 5 player, Jackie, who proceeded to play a fantastic match, conjuring up shots that would have had The Prawn guffawing in delight at their sneakiness. Ultimately she went down 3-0 but with that timely phrase 'I feel like I had a good game' being uttered, it all seemed worth it in the end.
Last in was Debs (the real Debs as opposed to that chancer in a certain Div 3 team) who deserves a special mention for making it to Wafi from the Marina, in an hour, (amongst full on mental traffic and mysterious (post nuclear bomb testing affected) weather) Speaking of mysterious happenings, somewhere between the 2nd and the 3rd matches, a leprechaun or other such magical being nipped on to court and raised the wood about 2 inches (that's a lot or a little depending on if you're a man or a woman, but suffice it to say it was too much in this case…) and she proceeded to very accurately nail the wood at every opportunity (make of that what you will!) and left the court with another 3-0 victory… to the other team.
That was that as far as matches went as our other regular Jane was off visiting far flung lands and all other token Janes were unavailable for varying and not always convincing reasons ('I broke a toenail' being the vague category of choice.)
Following the official games, our still eager opponents proceeded to play an exhibition round robin with each other, proving that they are indeed all brilliant at the sport, whilst the Janes looked on and debated whether one of the guys looked more like Richard Gere, Roger Federer or Keanu Reeves, (sorry other sporting ladies, we completely let the side down there…)
Eventually we all made it out to into the rain for an excellent meal and we'll be sad to see the Pharoahs promoted next year as that means no more mini sandwiches, chicken delight and salad fit for a, um, pharoah… or the medium hot grilling of two of our opponents who mistakenly told us what they did for a living.
All in all, despite the match result, we thoroughly enjoyed the games and the company and wish to thank Guery, Rahul, Vishal and Sandip for sugar coating the thrashing and generally being really nice chaps… good luck with Div 3 next year!
But an observation: Your intrepid reporter's calls to the DCC Flyers were unanswered. Captn. Underpants had a terse 'No Comment' when spotted holding a bag of blue cans while shaking his head violently at a recent event at the Dubai Country Club. Dr. E stared off into space while Pops held onto his rocker and fiddled with his hearing aid. Rumour is that the Flyers have been under strict lockdown and been told to focus on their squash and clean up their image by a mysterious new sponsor. Watch this space: we have a feeling that they cannot possibly stay quiet for long. And who exactly is this sponsor? Is there even one?
The above paragraph prompted an immediate response from Captain Underpants of the DCC Flyers:
"My apologies to all members of the press for my unusual silence at the beginning of the Spring/Summer squash league. Rumours abound of a new sponsor for the DCC Flyers. I can confirm this is the case, the money has been paid (and is being used to offset some cash flow difficulties by Dr E) and I will release details to you all in due course. Along with the sponsor has come a new set of rules for all involved with the Flyers.
You will have noted the early form shown to propel us to league leaders, a lofty height we have not achieved for at least 18 months. This can be attributed to a number of factors. The new sponsor's influence being one of them. I also believe that some excellent pre season training sessions, an alteration in the order of merit and the sense of team spirit forged by hours of team building at some controversial camps conducted during the closed season. We also feel that the long term injuries to Blakkies and Invisible Man have bonded us all together and a “siege” mentality has set in.
Our fitness levels have increased markedly and this is now shining through onto court. We have a tough match on Monday, away on the “Dark Side” to Club Olympus. With four regulars away this match will stretch our squad to the maximum. Debs will return to the fold after a match on loan to the Janes in Div 4 to sharpen up his skills and to instill some “dog” into him. The rest of the team will be Pieman, Prawn and Capn U.
The next few weeks will be very tough with the squad being stretched to the absolute maximum. I am keen to see the transfer window arrive so I can look into the loan market.”
Told ya! Couldn't stay quiet for long - that one lasted about 10 minutes!!
Now who exactly is the nameless sponsor? Can the Flyers retain the top spot now they've started talking again?
Stay tuned. for "Flyers III: Attack of the Drones" next week.
Less than 8 years after his first in Abu Dhabi, UAE national number one Khawaja Adil Maqbool has celebrated his 24th National Senior tile by winning the Dunlop backed PSA National Closed Satellite Circuit No.1, at the Dubai Country Club. Winning his first at the age of 12, in the last 6 years Adil has only lost one national events final in 2004, and has been unbeaten since then.
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Top seed Maqbool, now based in Ajman, and completing his final year of A' levels at the Ibn Seena English High School, faced Andy Nicole, the fourth seed, in the climax of the PSA Closed Satellite event.
Andy raced to an 8-4 lead in the first game, before Maqbool got the pace of the game right and finished the game off 11-8. Maqbool was in total control mid way through the first game as he faced stiff opposition from the fourth seed and without looking back then raced to a 4-0 lead in the second before Andy got a point followed by a long rally which seemed to take its toll on Andy, allowing Adil to win the game comfortably 11-3 and then the following 11-4. “I was really very stiff the day before form my quarter final with Ala, however I was able to get through the semi. But today I was just too tired. Four days of playing tough games, does take its toll. Adil played a very tight game and I tried but ran out of steam.”, Andy added after the final. |
| Right to Left - Ala Hrab (s.finalist), Sandeep Ramachandran (exihibition match winner), Khawaja Adil Maqbool (winner), Andy Staines (chairman uaesra), Abdul Rehman (below - runner up exhihibition match.) and Andy Nicole (runner up). |
Adil Maqbool, the highest ranked PSA Member in the country, who reached a best world ranking of 81 last year, also announced that there will be another Closed Satellite Event which will be organized in the first weeks of May. The dates have yet to be finalized. He also added, “Organizing an event for the first time in a country is a tough job, and with my studies and training it was even tougher to juggle time between them. However organizing the event was made possible by Andy Stains, who provided maximum support and his coordination when ever I needed it. Hosting the event would not have been possible with out him. Considering that it was the first time I introduced a PSA event in the country since 1993, it is satisfying to see 10 of the top 16 show up at such a short notice.”
Commenting on the tournament, the chairman of the UAESRA Andy Staines expressed his delight on the fact that the top players of the country competed in it allowing the spectators of the use to watch some quality squash. As Chairman of the DCC he also said that he was pleased that the tournament was held at the Country Club.
Maqbool finished at number 81 last year, but had to spend time preparing for his A Level examinations. A string of steady performances including two quarter finals in Iran and Canada, and this win which gives Maqbool 43.75 points for the world rankings will hopefully get him back into the top-100 in April, after six months off the circuit.
Maqbool, formerly ranked Number one is the world in the Under 13, 15 and 17 age groups, plans on playing squash full time from June onwards once his A' level exams get over.
Maqbool next week heads to Islamabad to play in a 2.5 Star PSA event, which has attracted most of the top-20 players in the world. "This should be a tough one."
UAE number one Khawaja Adil Maqbool and Andrew Nicole will meet in the final of the DUNLOP backed PSA NATIONAL CLOSED SATELLITE after similar semi-final victories in the PSA event at the Dubai Country Club in the Dubai.
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Top seed Maqbool, the 18-year-old UAE men's Champion since 2001, defeated India's Rajesh Mahgnani, the No3 seed, 11-5, 11-7, and 11-3 in less than 35 minutes to reach the 24th consecutive national senior final. Keeping it slow and allowing Maghnani into the game, the number 1 seed had a good work out before finishing the third quickly. Maqbool, who recently reached the quarter finals of two PSA Tour events in Canada and Iran, hopes to better his best World Ranking of 81, from June onwards, once he finishes his A' level exams for which he is preparing at the Ibn Seena English High School. Adil says, “Playing the two quarters gave me a lot of confidence that I can perform on the world stage. I am not playing full time because of my studies right now, and still managed to reach the quarters, so have a good feeling that I will be able to do something on the PSA Tour once I switch to full time.” Nicole, the fourth seed, on the other hand, faced another young Pakistani Saqib Rafi, the second seed, in the second semi-final. The pair battled for 25 minutes for the first two games, Nicole winning both, before Rafi seemed to give up the third and the match loosing 11-8, 11-7 and 11-3. The Chairman of UAE Squash Racquet Association, Andy Staines on this particular PSA event which is being held for the first time in the UAE, says, “Great to see a good level of squash played by a good mix of nationalities. And as chairman of DCC, as well, we are very pleased to have this tournament played here at the DCC.” |
This event is a PSA National Closed Satellite, being organized in the United Arab Emirates for the first tine after its introduction by the PSA in January 2007. Although it is a national event, now with this new category of tournaments introduced by the Professional Squash Association, it has been recognized internationally as part of the PSA tour and allows World Ranking players to earn points from the event.
Dunlop is the title sponsor of the tournament.
India's Rajesh Magnani, stands in the way of UAE's Number 1 squash player, Khawaja Adil Maqbool, from reaching his 24th consecutive national Men's Final at the DUNLOP PSA CLOSED SATELLITE CIRCUIT.
The third seed from India ended the run of unseeded Yasin Amjad, who put out 8th seed Farhim Khan in the earlier round, defeating him, 11-8, 6-11, 11-4 and 11-6, after displaying the use of some of his experience gained playing the top national squash for over a decade.
Khawaja Adil Maqbool, on the other hand had an easy run through his Iraqi opponent, Ahmed Jaffer, brushing him aside 11-3, 11-5, and 11-0.
Fourth seed, Andrew Nicole reserved his place in the last four of this PSA National Closed Satellite event at the Dubai Country Club when he beat Jordan's unseeded Ala Harb 8-11, 11-10 (3-2), 11-5, 4-11 and 11-7 in a tough encounter which lasted over an hour.
Nicole will now face second seed Saqib Rafi, who survived a duel with compatriot Rehman Mughees. Rafi needed 40 minutes eventually beating the seventh seed 11-6, 11-8, and 11-10 (4-2).
Pakistan's Yasin Amjad caused the one of the two upsets on the opening day of action in the DUNLOP PSA CLOSED SATELLITE CIRCUIT NO. 1 2007, when he defeated UAE's No.12 ranked Faheem Khan in the first round of the PSA National Closed Satellite Event at Country Club in Dubai, yesterday.
Yasin Amjad came from two games and 8-4 down in the third game to win the game and then comfortably brushed Khan aside 11-2 and 11-1 in the next two games, to reach his first national quarter-final.
Amjad, aged 19, will now face the third seed of the tournament, Rajesh Maghanani, in the quarter final.
The second upset was cased by unseeded Jordanian Ala Harb Muhaisnah who defeated the fifth seed Waqas Salahuddin, 11-9, 11-5, 11-5, and will now go on to face Andrew Nichol, the events fourth seed, who easily got past Martin Kirby 11-4, 115, 11-8.
UAE's Number 1 squash player, Khawaja Adil Maqbool, started his campaign for his 24th National Senior Title with a comfortable 11-5, 11-5, and 11-2 win over Alistair Shell.
Second seed Saqib Rafi Khan resisted very strong opposition put up by Indian Club's Niraj Mahija. After losing the first game 11-8, Mahija came back to win the next two games 11-6, 11-7 and seemed in a position to cause an upset after leading 7-3 in the fourth. However, Rafi fought back winning the game 11-9, to take it to a fifth and deciding set. After a long fifth game, Rafi managed to win the game and match 13-11, in the tie break. Rafi now faces Rehman Mughees, who won his opening match in straight games against Waqas Hanif.
The semifinals of the tournament will be held on the 16th of March at the Dubai Country Club.
Start to take off - too Late!!
Dubai Country Club, Monday 21st, by Dr. Evil: DCC Flyers overcoming an (almost) terminal flat spin affecting their season finally made it two wins in a row today. Despite managerial shennanigans, contagious johnsonitis and many other issues the Flyers still managed the miraculous feat of coming top of the bottom half. by beating the JW Marriott Griffins 14 -7.
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Under pressure player manager Captain Underpants picked himself this week above the in from Dr Evil. Rumours had it that Dr Evil was struggling with a biowarfare experiment gone wrong in his throat which made the decision an easy one. Having something to prove, after the scandalous allegations of the prior week against Acting Captain Debs regarding match fixing and the financial aspects of a rumoured ski trip to Switzerland, Capt. U complained “Is this an official handover to Debs for the captaincy? Have I been ousted in a bloodless Green Can coup? I shall have to fly into exile if this goes the wrong way......” Following which, in full regulation PIES uniform, Underpants opened the match early and full of beans. Despite the attendance being poor for this meaningless end of season play off clash Underpants began to look somewhere near his historic form. He even began to show some of the old fight and “never say die attitude” that he has become famous for. Unfortunately (for the 2 spectators) though, he did not bounce off any walls. The game itself was one way traffic from the start with only a momentary lapse of concentration resulting in one lost game. Underpants prevailed 3-1 to ease the growing unrest in the Flyers camp. |
Hopefully this return to his old ways will allow Underpants a peaceful and restive close season. “I will be back next season”, growled Underpants using the oft used phrase famed by another ageing and under pressure sportsman from a well known series of films. “I am going to work hard over the coming months to be ready and better than ever for next season”.
Meanwhile, some newbie on the balcony timidly asked “What does PIES” stand for? Well, you could look here.
but for Captn. U it means: Paul Is Extremely Short of cash.
Captn. U 3 Sokhi 1
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Pieman continued his domination over his bottom half division 3 opponents as he strolled to a 3 - 0 victory dispite still carrying a gut which is not diminishing in size. When interviewed about the weight problem Pieman stated flatly 'I really need to spend some time on the road, running is the only solution to the problem. I will start this week by entering the RAK half marathon.' But he did not mention anything at all about the star's rumoured Pie addiction....informed sources in the locker room say he has no intention of cutting back on those despite pleas from his beloved. These are problems that the two battling managers of the Flyers are not addressing as yet. |
“PIES” = “Pies Is Elton Swartz!!”
Pieman 3 Rachid 0
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Pops meanwhile, went on court with a far younger opponyent (as compared to last week) with grim look upon his face, determined to dispell the “Top of the Pops” label from last week. Lasted far longer this time, but alas could not keep it up long enough to finish off in a satisfactory manner... "Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter." He said defensively after his second loss in a row, "I don't feel old. I don't feel anything till noon. That's when it's time for my nap." |
“PIES” = Pops Is an Elderly Steibelt!
Pops 2 Abudi 3
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Debs on the other hand, did the opposite and took his game 3-2. Desperate to show he is still in the managerial category of the Flyers Corp, he dispensed with regulation PIESwear. Explaining his outfit: “Show me a guy whos afraid to look bad, and I'll show you a guy you can beat every time.” Bursting with energy he took the first 2 games, only to settle back into relaxed contemplation of his upcoming ski holiday and dropped the next two while day-dreaming about his new ski outfit and swiss bank account. “It was our best year ever!” he purred, obviously not referring to squash. Abuse was hurled from the gallery, Dr. Evil’s enhusiasm and magic elixir infected everyone including Debs who broke out of his daydream and went on to take the last game in style. |
“PIES” = Personal Incidental Expenditure Syndrome
Deb 3 Vikram 2
Match over, the Flyers then formed their traditional, and fearsome, post-match stance: standing still in a circle, arms at right angles pointed away from their bodies. They kept this up for a few hours, occasionally one of them digging deep into his pocket to keep the stance going.
“Their squash abilities may be questionable, but their morals are not” said an admiring bystander.
The night ended with Captn. U and Dr. Evil deep in a conversation involving the end of the world as we know it.
Stay tuned: Next Season’s prospects
Pieman: Will Pieman shed a few pounds in the off season? Will Pieman complete the half marathon? Will he give up PIES?
Pops: Will he perform better next season? or will he just be that little bit slower?
Bakkies: Obviously got contagious Johnsonitis after looking at attendance record.
The Prawn: Who?
Debs: Will he ascend to the captaincy? Will he return from Switzerland?
Dr. Evil: When will he stop plotting the end of the world and play real squash?
“I am carrying a few extra pounds will I will shift”, said an obviously determined Underpants.
How will the managerial battle turn out?
Will the Green Can Group take over? Or will some massive multinational sponsor the Flyers? Please apply here
Watch this space...
| First up was Dr. Evil who seemed rather complacent at first and hence lost the first game, but he soon found his evil power in the second game and didn't look back. Dr Evil won 3 - 1. |
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Next up was Pieman, who remembered to wear the Pies shirt. The letters 'PIES' sprawled across his back seemed to fuel his energy levels much like a camel bag would to a runner in the Marathon des Sables. Some rather lengthy rallies ensued but Pieman's stamina shone through as his opponent was struggling for air. Pieman won 3-1. |
| 3rd Match of the evening could have been named 'Top of the Pops' as Pops took on an even more mature opponent. Badder's experience resulted in a close encounter of the 'wizards', but Pops showed that he still has the legs and took the title and victory 3-2. A quote from an anonymous spectator 'The combined age on court must be near to a century', I didn't have my calculator there but I am sure that it was more like closer to 150. |
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| With the Flyers now up 3-0 in matches up stepped Captain Underpants. With the pressure off, the team was expecting great things from Underpants, but he went down 1-0 early on. When he chose not to exit the court after the first game the team was worried that the pressure was just too much for Underpants. To his credit Underpants soon started strutting his stuff on court and if it hadn't been for a few questionable calls and trickle boasts in the tin the match could have gone the other way. Underpants went down 2 - 3. |
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Underdogs DCC Macateers put up a brave fight in last Monday night’s crunch relegation battle against local arch- rivals DCC Flyers. Had the Welsh captain got his wizardry wrong (again)? Many fans were questioning why he had not fielded "Mini Pops" Steibelt when Bakkies Baxter had been mysteriously injured during a Friday morning outing, thereby forcing Pieman Swartz to take the no 1 slot. Capping it were rumours that Capn’ Underpants had again been late for the team’s training session on Saturday suggesting that he had not felt the Macateers’ unit as a serious threat. In a frank and exclusive interview with UAE Squash Org, Underpants retorted; “I don’t read everything I read in the press, but this is nonsense. If you had to name one particular person to blame it would have to be one of the players. I’ve got a contract to manage this team and I’m not going anywhere.” When pressed to answer questions on his team selection, he commented; "I would have to be deaf not to read the allegations but there’s nothing in it. I picked the right team for the night. We had a chat after the game and I told the players if you can't stand the heat in the dressing room, get out of the kitchen” |
| Some fans were unaware it was an early start on the night and missed Debs Dalton taking on Mick McAllister and securing a trouble free 3–0 lead. Few were barely lucky enough to get a glimpse of Mick making a hasty exit from the grounds as they made their way in. |
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Pieman Swartz in spite of turning out in irregulation kit, looked in fine form against a fit Ian Beale. Long rallies and a determined Pieman proved the stronger player on the night and at half time, Flyers were looking comfortable at 6-0 up.
When the crowd returned many predicted that Underpants’ team would take maximum points from the final two matches but there were plenty of surprises in the game still to come. |
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After the changeover, Macateer Keith Martin wasn’t going to be taken in by the Prawn’s usual slimy nonsense and was quickly able to pick up those devious shots which have destroyed so many unsuspecting “opponients” before him. The crowd grew restless – no doubt egged on by Dr Evil - who had to be cautioned for inciting racist chants of “Shrimp” and other unprintable culinary remarks. With the score at 2-2 The Prawn began to wilt. His serves were overcooked, hitting the ceiling while his drops found the tin. Suddenly it was all over and Keith Martin took a well deserved shell. |
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Confidence of a big score was still high as Pops took on the less fancied Julian Freeman. Despite his Michael Jackson complexion (caused by a horrific Snowboard injury to the head, & aside from last season's bite from his opponyent) he forcefully wheeled himself onto court. Sadly, from the off, Pops was on the ropes as Julian pushed hard and before Dr Evil had time to recharge, Macateers were 1-0. Games 2 and 3 were no less sudden in their brutality. Pops was not allowed any opportunity to get back into the game. It was a magical performance by Freeman who rewarded the thin contingent of die-hard supporters still true to a team facing relegation. “We threw our dice into the ring and turned up trumps” said one fan as he made his way out. |
The die certainly has not been cast in Division III. Watch this space....
DCC Flyers won the match 10-6.
Signed
Pops
Patient Name: DCC Flyers aka YarPIES
DOB: 1/1/1750 ish
Next of Kin: Nil (b'stard)
Diagnosis: Flatspiniosis
Latest Assessment
History
In good health until 5 weeks ago whereupon the classic symptoms of Flatspiniosis appeared. Symptoms included: increased bar spend, increased post match analysis, decreased training, increased weight, slowness, occasional bouts of anger on court and slide towards lower reaches of div 3.
It is unclear as to what caused the above symptoms. Certain triggers such as Captains absence, resulting in lack of guidance and Welsh input, elderly elements of the team injured, heavier sections of the team out of form, increased African exposure, have been put forward. Nothing definitive has been agreed upon as yet. It appears to be a combination of all of the above factors.
Current Observation (Monday 17th Dec 2006)
The assessment was performed at Jebel Ali Club. I shall write my observations on each separate body part involved at the time of assessment.
The YarPIES were now on their knees with Flatspiniosis quickly consuming the entire body. A terrible sight and one which nearly prompted a call to 999. This was only stopped when Pops finally appeared from the SZR clinic.
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Paul Johnson aka Cap’n Underpants – Displayed symptoms of enthusiasm and even rapid movement early on in the evening. Unfortunately never progressed from this. Well beaten by an organism from down under. In my opinion the recent exposure received by Capn Underpants to the particular family of organisms in question affected his ability to defend himself, the ashes being lost 3-0 was disastrous and as if by a quirk of fate……. Lost the battle 3 – 0. As a footnote his focus on avoiding the decent into Flatspiniosis was lessened by the appearance of a Bulgarian trolley dolly (as per Pops comment) |
| Dalton Taylor aka Debs – Beaten by a stronger cell structure. Performed slightly below average thus allowing said cell structure to dominate. Showed flashes of being able to beat them off but developed a touch of the well known condition tinitis. This severely affected the overall mental state of Debs weakening his resolve and succumbing 3 - 0. |
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Billy Baxter aka Bakkies – Started well, moving better than he has for weeks. Now less like a VLCC (very large crude carrier for you uninformed)) and more like a longboat. Alas, he was then overwhelmed by a very quick opponent who lacked the ability to ask for lets, much like bakkies himself. At least he got one point and briefly arrested the decent into full blown Flatspiniosis. Lost 3 - 1 |
| Chris Steibelt – aka Pops – Defences were low from the start due to a long time hibernating on SZR. Appeared late to the fight but played with guts. Unfortunately he was outclassed by a very good opponent with the best name ever Fokko!!!! Being Dutch this caused major amusement with Pops launching into his now familiar cloggy accent and ‘I lived in Rotterdam when I was a boy’ (accent done very well in the flesh) ditties at the dinner table. Lost 3-0 |
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Responsibilities for crushing the axis of evil were split into four tactical areas; Corporal Evil and Private Blikkies, taking on the protection of the right flank; whilst Captain Underpants tried to secure the left flank - his superior, Colonel Pops was to go central and straight up the middle and it was he who was likely to sustain the heaviest casualties.
In the event, their first victim was self-inflicted as Corporal Evil, seeing that this was going to be a long drawn-out war rather than the short conflict he expected, test-fired his weapon alone as his single enemy could not be found but was heard test-firing alone in the distance on the left. At around 1930 hours, our on-the-spot reporters witnessed the first salvoes as the battle commenced, collateral damage was on the cards tonight.
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From the rear echelons, on the balcony YarPIE Sergeants Prawn and Debs re-supplied themselves and offered their support dreading what was going to be the mother of all matches.
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The scenes which followed were not a pretty sight as sporadic fire and erratic bursts from Corporal Evil saw him take the advantage but was beaten back and sadly was not able to complete his mission - his next of kin have been informed of his bravery (fondly remembered).
Private Blikkies crawled forward quickly to replace Evil and had an early contact when he had to sustain a devastating attack which he just managed to survive, progressing on to the vital ground ready for his final assault after going into a two skirmish lead.
YarPIE Sergeants Prawn and Debs continued to re-supply themselves and offer more fire-support, although it was becoming more and more inaccurate.
Having initially surprised the his immature and naïve enemy, Blikkies, although mentally prepared an ready for the final assault on his objective, was battle weary and was swiftly overcome in the end. Finally, out of ammunition, Blikkies was beaten badly and withdrawn, flown out to the hospital ship sick bay.
Flyers were now looking unlikely victors in this war as they had already taken 50% casualties. Captain Underpants advanced to seize the initiative.
Underpants produced his weapon of mass destruction and, with the accuracy of a cruise missile, manoeuvred his way to the front line and quickly mowed down his enemy, Chetan not-so-Reddy. He constantly took on targets of opportunity, Reddy tried to survive with some worthy volleys, but his game was up. Underpants had survived and moved to the vital ground which he held to the end - this was definitely the “smoking gun” the public were so eager to see produced.
YarPIE Sergeants Prawn and Debs continued to re-supply themselves and offered less fire-support.
Expecting all to go smoothly on the reorganisation, Colonel Pops turned up at the start-line equipped for the final assault. In the distance, the demonstrators viewing from the balcony could barely watch and moved back out of the killing area to the safety of the bar. Shock and awe!
The final assault was underway and not so much shock and awe as shocking and awful. The treatment received by Colonel Pops, was despicable. Early indications showed that Pops was under the control a ruthless enemy.
Pops had not lasted long in this assault as he realised far too late that he had been firing blanks from the outset.
YarPIE Sergeants Prawn and Debs continued to re-supply themselves and offered no fire-support.
Sensing danger, Pops moved to cover but found himself in an irreversible flat spin.
Under a barrage of enemy shots and after sustained abuse from the anti-conflict demonstrators, Pops collapsed as the enemy stood alive and victorious on the key terrain.
YarPIE Sergeants Prawn and Debs continued to re-supply themselves back at the NAAFI.
Pops tried, but was spent from his previous assaults; over the years, the sanctions he had imposed on his fitness had finally taken their toll - he was captured.
The supporters from both sides had assembled, sensing the end of a bloody war. A close-run battle with both sides proving themselves to be both soft targets and harassing enemies, but the Flyers were ultimately, defeated.
It was Blikkies who received the only medal during the course of the conflict, being awarded a VC (Very Catching) for the most outrageous shorts worn - well done!
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A telegram has been received from General Pieman in Military Headquarters, East London, stating that having re-serviced their equipment, the Flyers are to be ready to deploy to the Jebel Ali battle theatre next week, where there is sure to be some heavy fighting but good troop entertainment.
Semper Fi Flyers! |
First up was Honarary Jaaarpie Billy from Bloemfontein playing at 2. Looked good but could only finish a rally when he tinned it, stopped running, tinned it, played himself out of position, tinned it... 0-3.
Typical Jarpie attitude when he came orf court, look of sheepish disbelief on his face....probably picked up the look watching SA's demise to Ireland on Saturday (same previously this year against Aust, NZ, Aust).
Definite social points to Billy, drowned his sorrows drinking orange juice till +-23h00 and was almost willing to pay the food bill.
Second up was Debutant Dalton playing at 4. Had his cherry popped good and proper like. First league win in his entire squash carreer!!! 3-0
Arrived bleary eyed as promised, slight nervous twitch appeared but sorted out the twitch and his opponent in pretty short time. Left the court with a bemused grin at having his first ever win. This was never declared before so not sure how the team is going to score this social ommission of the facts....leave this up to Cpt Underpants and cronies. Good luck on this one Dalton.
Dalton belly'ed up to the Orange Juice source as long as the Kid from Bloem but your social points depend on whether your historical squash record ommission is seen in a positive light or ......... good luck again fella.
Third up was Jaarpie No #1. This was entertaining. Paul would have enjoyed this. Elton needs lessons in full body contact squash. Three games of obstruction, shoving, more bloody obstruction, shoving, drama classes from his oponent. This all cumulated in the sneakiest rabbit punch to the kidneys by Elton ever seen....or it was pure oscar winning drama from his oponent. Elton 3-0.
Full social points to Elton. Complained when the trough staff put up the shutters at mid night and did not want to serve him another orange juice. Last seen stumbling towards his car and quietly laughing to himself (as he often does!!???).
Fourth game pretty boring except the first game. Down something like 4-10 but came back to win 14-12. Thereafter served my way to a 3-1 win. This was not squash, there were no rallys just serve and stand, let my opponent make all the mistakes.
As usual, left the court and got another orange juice down my neck and a ciggie into the lungs before I could get grouchy.
Left with Elton so was witness to him pouring himself towards his car.
Finally....the social Jaarpie fans pitched up. One with a full jaapie accented "HOWZIT" and almost got the "ekse" right and the other quieter one (evil looking fella). The quiet one spent most of his time checking his emails off his phone (negative points here). Both started drinking orange juice on arrival, stuck it out for an hour, had a whispered conversation and snuck off to places that we will never know about.....or want to know about.....but maybe....
Till next time....
CAPTAINS: If you did NOT receive the Fixture list your email details with us are NOT correct - please send them to us! It is YOUR responsibility to make sure the listing is correct.
League will start on Monday November 6th 2006.
Captains click here to enter the 'Captains Area' and register your team. You will need a username and password that will arrive in a separate email from the organiser.
If you want to register a brand new team into the league please contact the organiser.
Do it NOW as the deadline is October 19th!! and your payments MUST be in before the league starts.
If you are not in a team and wish to play in the league, you need to be a member of a club. There is a list of some of the clubs here. Please contact them directly.
Please note that the league will now score matches using the new 11 point system that is now in use on the professional circuit. Each game is scored point-a-rally (PAR) to 11 points, with a requirement for two clear points to win the game from 10-all. Maybe you should start to play all your friendlies under this system to get used to it?
Itching to play before that? How about the
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Club Open Squash Tournament - Sept. 2006
Sheraton Kids tournament started on the 26th Sept. 2006
Al Nasr Ramadan Juniors 2006
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Club Open Squash Tournament - Sept. 2006
Sheraton Kids tournament started on the 26th Sept. 2006
Al Nasr Ramadan Juniors 2006
| Who can say, but what can be said is that after some entertaining matches, which saw Al Ain prevail 3-1 on the night, we narrowly avoided the wooden spoon in our inaugural season in the league. All was not looking well, when the DCC No. 1, Elton Schwartz got the Flyers off to a 'flyer' by proving to be too consistent and steady for Malcom Lewthaite as he won 3-0, but from then on in, Al Ain managed to turn the tide on their metropolitan rivals. First, the Hungarian Hitman, Feri Nagy beat Arjun Mukerji 3-0 in the 2nd match which could have gone either way in all 3 games, before the Syrian Sorcerer, Hadi Adwe beat the DCC captain, the Welsh Wizard, Paul Johnson, in the match of the evening. Paul took the first two games, but then was entranced by the magic flowing off Hadi's racquet, as he came from behind to win 3-2. Finally, in another entertaining encounter, Hayan Al Hadad, beat Jon Sillefant 3-0 in the evening's final match. Thankfully, in true sportsmanlike tradition, Al Ain decided not to play in their sparkling orange t-shirts (see photos) or else we could have run the risk of blinding our opponents. |
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Then, the teams adjourned for a very fine Mexican buffet, where we all had to wear the oversized hats. The only thing missing were the ponchos, although by the end of the meal, there were quite a few paunches on display, so stuffed were we with margueritas, coronas and assorted grills and salads. |
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The opening match threw Captain Underpants (Paul Johnson) into battle against the big, but very quick, Nilesh Soni. Nilesh triumphed 3-0 with Underpants battling hard. The third game was especially cruel with the score at 14-13 to Underpants, the big man somehow crafted a shot off the frame of the racket to land, dead in the front. Some would say this was extremely fortunate (Captain Underpants did anyway, loudly and not repeatable!!) but the way Nilesh was playing possibly deserved!!!!!! |
| Up next was Chris "Pops" Steibelt still recovering from his snowboarding accident (at his age!!!). A close game ensued with Pops briefly showing us his recent good form. This was not enough and he eventually went down 3-1 to Shahab Naqui. Back to the slippers and pipe for Pops I think. | |
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The evening was now in full swing with the addition on the sidelines in a spectators role of the often mercurial, more likely Uranus like, Arjun Mukerji. Next on court was the young Professor of Mathematics Tom "Tin-Tin" Steibelt. Inspired on the sidelines by his good lady Tom produced an excellent win, 3-1. The loss of one game and many brushes with the metallic parts of the court were to prove costly though |
| Up stepped (waddled) Elton Pie-Man Schwartz, looking as if he has laid of the lard for a week or two but with aching wisdom teeth as an excuse this time. Needing to win 3-0 to tie the game against a very fit and determined Abdul Hakeem. An excellent and hard fought match followed. The athleticism on display was (almost) breathtaking, the Melbourne Commonwealth Games is definitely missing out was the comment from the balcony!! Unfortunately for the Flyers Pie-man only won 3-1. | |
| Some news on the League's handsomest team; who finally took off this week. Generated quite a racket while flying....and hot air.... |
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Same aforementioned team is still missing a well known key member due to his preoccupation with other activities...here's another picture of him in case you've forgotten his style. |
| Meanwhile, their Skipper's not been seen for a couple of weeks. Guess he must also be busy doing something else.. |
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The organisers cannot be responsible for captains not receiving emails if their email addresses are not up to date or are simply wrong. If your email address is not correct on the contact details page - contact the organiser and let them know what your email address is.
Messages are often returned as some email inboxes have not been cleared down; most frequently returned emails are from AOL, Yahoo and Hotmail - if you have an email address with one of these, check frequently to ensure your in-box is actively receiving messages; again the organisers will not be held responsible for those captains not receiving messages because they are not maintaining their email account as they should.
If you are not receiving messages from the organisers, then neither are your team members - because you are obviously not able to send on - therefore for the sake of your team players make sure we have your correct email address and that it is kept active.
Over Florida around 9pm UAE time on Monday 24th October....
Paul, Elton, Arjun & Chris after their unprecedented, 4th in a row of non-losses.
Nothing to do with Dubai Squash, but here is some of the just concluded British Open News & Headlines
Guess all the squash in the last couple of weeks has been pretty boring as we've received no stories from anyone, so a final appeal to the Captains: Please send in your weekly stories & photos!!
Division 2 Winners: DCC Macateers 1
Division 3 Winners: JARC 1
Individual Matches Winner: Chris Wind
at the 
May 16th 2005: Final Week of the season
May 9th, 2005: Great news! the Dubaisquash.org website has been completely revamped to give you even more information on squash in Dubai and the UAE.
Mens Squash League
Leisureland 1
Aviation Jets
Flyers
India Club Daredevils
Faheem Khan
Rehman Mughees
Arfan Butt
Neeraj Makhija
Ahmed Dada
Manzoor Khan
Nihal
Gourav Samtani
