NICK MATTHEW leads home interest in this years championship and is showing the form that may win him his second British Open title.
In 2006 the Englishman made an indelible mark on squash history when he became the first home-grown British Open Champion in the event’s prestigious history, rounding off a sensational twelve months which began with him being crowned British National Champion for the first time and also included him winning the British Grand Prix title, both of which were won at the National Squash Centre here in Manchester.
Since making one of the most courageous comebacks last year, Matthew has strung together big wins and advanced to a career-high ranking of World No.5. He has overcome nine depressing months on the sidelines and returned mentally, physically and tactically even stronger, and being prepared to indulge a little more risk-taking too.
The threat to his career has intensified the English No.1’s ambition.