Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh, and Anahat Singh combined to script history as India lifted its first-ever Squash World Cup title with a commanding 3-0 victory over Hong Kong. Playing their maiden World Cup final in Chennai on Sunday, December 14, the Indian team rose to the occasion in front of a vociferous home crowd and produced a clinical performance to topple the pre-tournament favourites in straight ties.
The emphatic triumph marked India’s finest showing in the competition, surpassing its previous best result of a bronze medal in 2023. Hong Kong, meanwhile, also registered its best-ever finish at the event, improving on its bronze-medal finish two years ago.
The atmosphere inside the mall was electric as fans rallied behind the Indian players, whose composure and tactical discipline stood out on the big stage.
Joshna Chinappa Gives India the Perfect Start
Veteran campaigner Joshna Chinappa set the tone for India’s historic triumph with a gritty and composed performance in the opening match. Ranked 79th in the world, Joshna overcame early challenges to defeat Ka Yi Lee, who was ranked 42 places above her, 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1 in a contest that lasted 23 minutes.
Joshna cruised through the first game, where her superior court craft and shot selection were evident. However, Lee raised her intensity in the second and third games, unleashing a series of crisp winners from the backcourt and briefly putting the Indian under pressure.
The 39-year-old responded with the calm assurance that comes with experience. She held her nerve to edge the closely fought third game 7-5 before asserting complete control in the fourth, closing out the match decisively and denying her opponent any opportunity to mount a comeback.
Abhay and Anahat Seal Historic Title
Buoyed by Joshna’s opening win, Abhay Singh took centre stage in the second match. Known for his ability to deliver on big occasions, the 27-year-old looked sharp and confident in national colours. He produced a ruthless display to dismantle reigning Asian champion Alex Lau, winning in straight games and extending India’s advantage.
Anahat Singh then completed the formalities in emphatic fashion. Showing maturity beyond her years, she brushed aside Asian champion Tomato Ho in just 16 minutes. Anahat dominated the rallies with her pace and precision, sealing the tie without allowing Hong Kong a foothold in the contest.
Among My Top 5 Performances: Chinappa
India’s coach Harinder Singh described the triumph as a special moment for the team and the sport in the country.
“It’s a big win for us. These were high-pressure matches, especially against Hong Kong in the final and Egypt in the semifinals, and the team delivered when it mattered most,” he said.
Joshna Chinappa said the performance would rank among the finest of her career and called it India’s greatest achievement in squash on home soil.
“This will definitely be among my top five performances. Winning the World Cup at home makes it even more special,” she said.
Squash World Cup Final: Result
Final: India beat Hong Kong 3-0
Joshna Chinappa beat Ka Yi Lee 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1
Abhay Singh beat Alex Lau 7-1, 7-4, 7-4
Anahat Singh beat Tomato Ho 7-2, 7-2, 7-5
– Ends
