Saira Naz seeks grassroots talent

PESHAWAR
Saira Naz, a former distinguished table tennis player hailing from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, now serving as a qualified coach in the provincial sports department, is on a mission to unearth and nurture the abundant table tennis talent within the region.
In a conversation with the media in Peshawar, Saira shared her journey, reminiscing her ascent from winning medals for district Swabi at provincial levels to clinching numerous accolades for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in national tournaments. Not only did she excel in playing, but she also undertook coaching courses, successfully completing a coaching program held in Lahore in collaboration with the Pakistan Table Tennis Federation and International Federation with commendable scores.
Saira’s dedication to the sport transcended borders when she represented Pakistan in the third Thailand Open Master Games, held in Chambori, Thailand. Amidst a global cohort of players, Saira Naz emerged as the sole female representative from Pakistan, showcasing her prowess on an international platform. She notably secured victories against the Thai team in the initial rounds, advancing to the pre-quarter finals before succumbing to a formidable opponent from Sri Lanka.
Reflecting on her international debut, Saira Naz expressed gratitude for the invaluable experience gained. Despite falling short of securing a medal for Pakistan, her relentless efforts underscored her commitment to the sport. Saira believes that her participation in international competitions not only elevates her game but also enhances her capabilities as a coach, enabling her to mentor aspiring players more effectively in her district of Swabi.
With Saira Naz at the helm, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s table tennis scene stands poised for a resurgence, fueled by passion, talent, and unwavering dedication.