Duncalf welcomes ‘great platform’

Following last week’s decision by the International Olympic Committee, the sport is now in a three-way battle with wrestling and baseball/softball to be chosen for the ‘greatest show on earth’ in seven years, with a final decision due in September when the committee meets in Buenos Aires.

World No 7 Duncalf, from Harrogate, admitted she was relieved to hear squash read out as the third sport to make the shortlist, particularly after baseball/softball was the second sport to be revealed – a decision which surprised many who expected karate to make the final three with wrestling and squash.

“The whole push for getting into the Olympics is massive among the players,” said 30-year-old Duncalf, desperate to represent her country on the biggest stage.

“It’s not just about us as individuals it’s all about the sport as a whole.

“Even if I didn’t play there it would be such a great platform to show so many more people what a great sport we have.”

Duncalf, who has been practising doubles in Glasgow in preparation for next year’s Commonwealth Games, said squash needed to ensure it maintained the momentum it had built up in recent months with its relentless campaign.

“I don’t think anybody in the sport will be resting on their laurels,” she added. “It’s getting to the business end now and we need to keep it going throughout the next few months.”

TOP seed Alister Walker overcame second-seeded Dutchman Laurens Jan Anjema 11-8, 11-6, 11-7 to land the Hong Kong Football Club PSA International.

The triumph marked the former Chapel Allerton regular’s second PSA World Tour title of the year and the ninth of his career.