Qatar Classic Round One: Khan Dispatches Malhotra

USA’s Shahjahan Khan is through to the second round of a PSA World Tour Platinum for the first time in his career after overcoming the higher-ranked Vikram Malhotra to reach the last 32 at the Qatar Classic in Doha.

World No.45 Malhotra had won all four of their previous matches on the PSA Tour, but the short rallies appeared to favour Khan, who showed some nice touches en route to closing out an 11-9, 3-11, 11-4, 11-3 victory.

The Pakistan-born World No.62 will line up against Colombia’s Miguel Rodriguez for a place in the third round.

“Thanks to God that he gave me this success,” said Khan.

“All credit to my opponent, Vikram played really well in the second and third game. In the first game I had to put the pace up, chase the ball down and wait for my opponent to make an error.

“I think today was about being more patient and I think I did that today. Playing these tournaments for the first time after a long time without competition meant that I was a little bit nervous, but it was a good match today.

“I think last time I played him [Rodriguez] it was a good match. I played really well and lost in four but I’m looking forward to it and I’m really happy to be at these events and playing a top player.”

Result
Shahjahan Khan (USA) bt Vikram Malhotra (IND) 3-1: 11-9, 3-11, 11-4, 11-3 (35m)