For decades, Indian squash lived in the shadows of global giants. On Saturday night in Chennai, those shadows disappeared. With fearless performances and unshakeable composure, India swept past Egypt to script a first-ever Squash World Cup final appearance, a moment that may redefine the sport’s future in the country.
Indian squash created history on home soil as the national team booked a maiden entry into the Squash World Cup final, defeating defending champions Egypt 3–0 in a commanding semifinal clash at the SDAT Squash World Cup in Chennai.
Second-seeded India outplayed the two-time champions — title winners in 2012 and 2023 — to register their best-ever performance at the marquee event. India will now face Hong Kong in Sunday’s final after Hong Kong beat Japan in the other semifinal.
This historic run eclipses India’s previous best finish at the tournament — a bronze medal in 2023, when they lost to Malaysia in the semifinals.
Semifinal Results: India 3–0 Egypt
Velavan Senthilkumar gave India a flying start, defeating Ibrahim Elkabbani 3–0 (7–1, 7–3, 7–6)
Anahat Singh, India’s top-ranked women’s player, showed remarkable composure to beat Nour Heikal 3–2 (6–7, 7–5, 7–3, 3–7, 7–3)
Abhay Singh sealed the tie with a confident 3–1 win over Adam Hawal (7–5, 6–7, 7–5, 7–6)
With the tie already decided, Joshna Chinappa did not need to take the court against Nardine Garas.
Anahat’s Breakthrough Moment
At just 17 years old, Anahat Singh is the youngest player in the tournament and is making her World Cup debut. Ranked world No. 28, she once again proved her big-match temperament, continuing a breakthrough season for Indian squash.
India’s Dominant Run So Far
India have been flawless throughout the tournament:
Group Stage: Beat Switzerland and Brazil 4–0
Quarterfinal: Defeated South Africa 3–0
Semifinal: Beat Egypt 3–0
The 2025 edition marks the third consecutive Squash World Cup hosted in Chennai, with 12 teams competing across four groups, from which the top two advanced to the knockout stage.
Now just one win away from history, India will look to cap a sensational campaign with their first-ever Squash World Cup title when they face Hong Kong in Sunday’s final.
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