Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Hosts India were crowned World Cup squash champions for the first time after registering a commanding 3–0 victory over top seeds Hong Kong, China, in the final at Express Avenue Mall in Chennai on December 14. The victory marked a significant moment for Indian squash as the team became only the fifth nation to win a major world squash team event. The mixed-team World Cup included 12 teams from around the world as India entered the final eager to move past their disappointment from the semi-final exit in 2023, which had also taken place on the same court. With support from a lively home crowd, the hosts delivered an excellent performance to secure the title.
Veteran Joshna Chinappa set the tone in the opening match by defeating Ka Yi Lee in four games. Despite Lee’s higher world ranking, the 39-year-old from Chennai dominated most of the match. She overcame a brief challenge in the second game to win 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1. India doubled their lead with Abhay Singh, who showcased a strong performance against Alex Lau. The Chennai player, who had a good head-to-head record against Lau, controlled the match with aggressive play and precise shots. He wrapped up a quick 7-1, 7-4, 7-4 win in just 19 minutes.
With the title at stake, 17-year-old Anahat Singh stepped up against Tomato Ho. The teenager from Delhi first gained attention at the 2022 Commonwealth Games at 14 years old. She showed impressive composure and skill, outplaying her opponent 7-2, 7-2, 7-5 and securing India’s place in the history books.
