Amr Shabana, the first Egyptian to top the world squash rankings, has accepted an invitation to join the board of the Professional Squash Association.

The 29-year-old from Cairo will become the board's President, succeeding Lee Beachill who has been appointed the Association's Chief Operating Officer.

Shabana has been a dominant force in world squash in recent years:  The left-hander won the first of three World Open titles in 2003 and in April 2006 began an unbroken 33-month reign as world number one before going on to win the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Open trophy last year to bring his career PSA Tour title tally to 22.

"Before I joined the PSA, Amr was one of the players that always voiced his opinion about the state of our sport.  He often shared his ideas with me, both verbally and in writing," explained PSA Chairman Ziad Al-Turki.  "I am really very delighted by his appointment, and certain he will contribute much to the future development of the sport."

Amr Shabana added: "I'm honoured to be brought onto the PSA Board and to be named as PSA President.  I look forward to this opportunity and to be part of the ongoing process in the development of the sport of squash - particularly in the final stages of our bid to join the Olympic Games programme.  It is a crucial time for the game and I am delighted that I am in an effective position that hopefully can bring about more positive steps in the sport."