Shuja Claims Title in Front of Home Crowd

Kashif Shuja has claimed the Manawatu International Squash Classic after an entertaining final.

Kashif Shuja has claimed the Manawatu International Squash Classic in an entertaining final against Wellington's Evan Williams. In winning the final Shuja also claims the Central Open title as well as vital world ranking points.

Shuja dominated from the outset with some outstanding deception particularly down the forehand side as well as playing error free Squash. He took the first set 11-5. Williams then came out blazing in the second to gain a 7-3 lead. Williams hit a number of winners playing an aggressive style of Squash. He took the second 11-7.

The crucial third set was neck and neck and the key moment came when the score was 7 all. Shuja played a forehand drive which Williams went across to cut off. He asked the referee for a let but the call was 'no let'. The referee judged that he was to late getting across which resulted in a heated exchange between Williams and the referee. The next two points resulted in Williams hitting two tins to allow Shuja to get to 10 -7. Shuja then slotted a classy nick to take the third set.

The fourth set once again saw some entertaining Squash with some long rallies. Williams ultimately made too many mistakes, particularly at the front of the court. Shuja's experience came to the fore as he played intelligent Squash taking the fourth set 11-6 to clinch the match and the title.

Joelle King continued her domination of the Women's Open defeating Kylie Lindsay in three straight sets. Lindsay was under pressure from the outset with King's athleticism around the court and ability to retrieve any shot. Lindsay is a known shot maker and took the second set right to wire losing it 15-13. In the third game she continued to go for her shots but made too many areas and King wrapped it up in straight sets.

Manawatu International Squash Classic/Central Open Men's final

Kashif Shuja beat Evan Williams 11-5, 7-11, 11-7, 11-6

Women's Open final

Joelle King beat Kylie Lindsay 11-4, 15-13, 11-4