Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India: India etched its name into squash history by winning the Squash World Cup for the first time, becoming only the fifth country to claim a major World Squash team title.

Playing on home soil, the Indian side delivered a dominant 3-0 win over top-seeded Hong Kong, China, in the final held at Express Avenue Mall in Chennai on December 14.

This landmark triumph marked a major milestone for Indian squash, as the hosts joined an elite group of nations that have captured a World Squash team championship.

The mixed-team Squash World Cup featured 12 teams from across the globe. India entered the tournament determined to overcome the setback of their semifinal loss in 2023, which had also taken place on the same court. Fueled by passionate home support, the Indian players rose to the occasion and produced a memorable performance to secure the title.

Veteran campaigner Joshna Chinappa gave India the perfect start by overcoming Ka Yi Lee in the opening match. Despite Lee’s superior world ranking, the 39-year-old Chennai-born player controlled most of the contest, recovering from a brief dip in the second game to seal a 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1 victory.

India strengthened their advantage when Abhay Singh took charge against Alex Lau. With a positive head-to-head record coming into the match, the Chennai player displayed sharp attacking play and accuracy, closing out a convincing 7-1, 7-4, 7-4 win in just 19 minutes.

With the championship on the line, 17-year-old Anahat Singh delivered the finishing touch against Tomato Ho. The Delhi teenager, who rose to prominence at the 2022 Commonwealth Games at just 14, showed remarkable maturity and composure to outclass her opponent 7-2, 7-2, 7-5 and clinch the historic title for India.

This victory places India alongside squash powerhouses Australia, Egypt, England, and Pakistan as the only nations to have won a major World Squash team event.

Speaking after the win, Joshna Chinappa expressed her joy at competing in her home city. She said being able to represent India continues to motivate her to train and perform at the highest level, adding that the crowd support in Chennai made a decisive difference.

Abhay Singh described the evening as unforgettable, calling it a privilege to share the moment with legendary teammates. The Chennai native said playing in front of his home crowd left him emotional and hoped the win would inspire young players at the India squash academy and viewers watching across the country to stay disciplined and keep striving for success.

Final Result – Squash World Cup

Final:

• India defeated Hong Kong, China 3-0
• Joshna Chinappa defeated Ka Yi Lee 3-1 (7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1)
• Abhay Singh defeated Alex Lau 3-0 (7-1, 7-4, 7-4)
• Anahat Singh defeated Tomato Ho 3-0 (7-2, 7-2, 7-5)