Guernsey Press

Simpson 'absolutely gutted' to miss out on representing England

CHRIS SIMPSON'S first-round victory in the Hong Kong Open today has been tempered by the news of England's withdrawal from the WSF World Men's Team Championship in Cairo following security fears.

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The Guernseyman had been due to make his debut at the event later this month as part of the England quartet also including captain Nick Matthew, Daryl Selby and James Willstrop.

Team England is one of several nations, including France, Germany, Finland, Canada and the USA, that has pulled out of the WSF World Men's Squash Team Championships in Cairo following security fears.

The decision follows the recent wave of terrorist activity across the world resulting in the need for heightened security.

Keir Worth, CEO, commented, 'Following the release of security plans for the event and subsequently a comprehensive report from independent security advisers, we have concluded that there is an inherent risk that has not been mitigated to an acceptable level.

'We have been through a significant consultation with the players and support staff over recent weeks and we are extremely disappointed to be withdrawing, but the safety of our players and support staff remains our only priority and, at this time, we have real concerns.'

The news broke while Simpson was on court in Hong Kong against Alan Clyne. The Sarnian won 11-7, 11-5, 11-3 to second up a second-round clash with world No. 5 Miguel Rodriguez on Thursday.

Simpson tweeted: 'Absolutely gutted that I won't get to represent England at the world teams, however I think @englandsr have managed the situation very well.'

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