On December 9, Chennai hosted the opening match of the Squash World Cup 2025, and India struck quickly, routing Switzerland 4‑0 in their Pool B kickoff at the Express Avenue Mall.
Velavan Senthilkumar, the national champion and world No. 45, set the tone by sweeping Robin Gadola (rank 296) 3‑0 with close games of 7‑6, 7‑6, 7‑5. Gadola had taken a 6‑5 lead early, but Velavan bounced back with two consecutive points and kept the pressure on.
The next two matches were dominated by Indian players. 17‑year‑old Anahat Singh, the competition’s youngest competitor and first‑time World Cup participant, played with calm assurance. She beat Celine Walser 3‑0, registering 7‑1, 7‑4, 7‑2; Walser briefly rallied to a 4‑4 tie in the second set, yet Anahat’s focus and precision sealed the win.
Abhay Singh, India’s top‑ranked male (world No. 29), comfortably dispatched Louai Hafez 3‑0, recording 7‑0, 7‑5, 7‑3. The Swiss opponent launched a late comeback, but Singh held his advantage throughout.
Veteran Joshna Chinappa, 39, and former world No. 10, completed the sweep by defeating Stella Kaufmann 3‑1, scoring 7‑1, 5‑7, 7‑2, 7‑0. She regained control after losing the second game.
“It feels good to get that first win,” said India’s Harinder Pal Sandhu. “The first match is always a bit nervy, playing in front of a home crowd with a lot of people supporting so it’s good to get all of that out in the first match. Going forward we’re going to be really hungry and there’s going to be a lot of desire. We’re hoping to do well!”
Twelve nations are participating this year, including Malaysia, the runners‑up from last edition, and Egypt, the reigning champions. Teams are split into four groups of three, and the top two from each group will move on to the quarter‑finals.
India, who earned bronze in 2023, is set to face Brazil on Thursday in their next group encounter.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
