Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh and Anahat Singh combined to script history as India claimed their first ever World Cup squash title with an impressive 3-0 win over Hong Kong. Playing their first World Cup final in Chennai on Sunday, December 14, the Indian team rose to the occasion in front of a raucous home crowd and produced a clinical performance to defeat the pre-tournament favorites in straight draws.
The emphatic triumph marked India’s best ever performance in the competition, surpassing its previous best of a bronze medal in 2023. Meanwhile, Hong Kong also claimed its best-ever finish at the event, bettering its bronze medal finish two years ago.
The atmosphere inside the mall was electrifying as fans rallied behind the Indian players, whose composure and tactical discipline stood out on the big stage. Indian players celebrate winning the World Cup. (Photo by AFP)
Joshna Chinappa gives India a perfect start
Seasoned batsman Joshna Chinappa set the tone for India’s historic triumph with a gutsy and composed performance in the opening match. Joshna, ranked 79th in the world, overcame early challenges to beat Ka Yi Lee, 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 excellent court skills and shot selection were evident. However, Lee turned up the intensity in the second and third games, unleashing a series of sharp winners from the back of the court and briefly putting the Indian under pressure.
The 39-year-old replied with the calm confidence that comes with experience. She held her nerve to take a closely fought third game 7-5 before asserting complete control in the fourth, closing out the match strongly and denying her opponent any chance of a comeback.
Abhay and Anahat seal the historic title
Buoyed by Joshna’s opening win, Abhay Singh took center stage in the second match. Known for his ability to serve on big occasions, the 27-year-old looked sharp and confident in the 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 an emphatic manner. She showed maturity beyond her years, sweeping aside Asian champion Tomato Ho in just 16 minutes. Anahat dominated the rally with her pace and accuracy, sealing the tie without giving Hong Kong a foothold in the contest.
Among my top 5 performances: Chinappa
India 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. They were high-pressure games, especially against Hong Kong in the final and Egypt in the semi-final, and the team came through when it mattered most,” he said.
Joshna Chinappa said the performance would be among the best of her career and termed it as India’s biggest squash achievement on home soil.
“This will definitely be in my top five performances. Winning the World Championships at home makes it even more special,” she said.
Squash World Cup Final: Result
Final: India beat Hong Kong 3-0
Joshna China Lee 7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1
Abhay Singh defeated Alex Lau 7-1, 7-4, 7-4
Anahat Singh beat Tomato Ho 7-2, 7-2, 7-5
– The end
Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
December 14, 2025
