Micah Franklin makes his return to a tournament he has fared well in over the years in this week’s Rubis Graded Squash Tournament.

Franklin, who won the competition from 2009 to 2011, made a winning start in last night’s opening round, breezing past Nazir Smith in three sets at the Bermuda Squash Racquets Association courts.

Franklin, who has coached Smith at club level, was never seriously challenged in a 11-3, 11-7, 11-7 win.

The 24-year-old returned to Bermuda in June, having previously been based in Lee-on-the-Solent in Portsmouth, and will be the favourite to add to his collection of titles at this week’s competition.

“I’m back on the island more or less full-time and it’s great to be able to play tournaments locally,” said Franklin, who is ranked 171st in the professional world rankings.

“I just love playing at home and I’m giving lessons and coaching, and helping out at the squash club while I still tour.

“It’s great to have the support of my family and I have everything I need here with trainers and fitness coaches.

“I’m also free to travel ten weeks of the year to play in overseas tournaments.”

Franklin, the No 1 seed, expects to face some stiff competition at the Rubis Graded tournament, including defending champion Kristen Johnson and Patrick Foster, the BSRA director of squash.

“You have to remain confident, especially as the No 1 seed,” said Franklin, who reached the quarter-finals of the Caribbean Area Squash Association Senior Championships in August.

“I need to solidify my spot and it’s going to be tough. It’s never easy, just because we’re a small country, as we have some great players. I’m expecting a challenge, that’s for sure.”

The tournament, now in its ninth year, has a record entry of 92 players aged between 8 and 65 and will field six categories, as well as a junior event.

Patrick Foster, the director of squash, said he hoped for a fantastic atmosphere at the Devonshire courts.

“It’s great to see so many people of all ages and standards wanting to take part,” he said. “We expect a fantastic atmosphere down at the courts all week.

“With so many players involved, it’s going to be busy, but great fun. Anyone interested in squash should come down and join us.”

The finals will be held on Friday.