Abhay and Anahat Lead the Way at HCL 80th National Squash Championship in Mumbai

Mumbai, 12th August, 2024: The HCL 80th National Squash Championship concluded today with a resounding success, showcasing the sport’s resurgence in India. Organised by HCL Group, a leading global conglomerate, in collaboration with the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) the event was held at the prestigious Bombay Gymkhana Club from 4- 10 August. With around 670 players from 25 states, the championship reflected the growing popularity of squash across the nation.

Competing for a total prize purse of ₹9 Lakh, players participated in 12 categories including Men, Women, and Professional Coach and Masters in the age group of 35-70. Women Over-35 category was introduced providing a platform for women to continue excelling in the sport.

The men’s category witnessed an intense battle, with Abhay Singh from Tamil Nadu emerging victorious over Velavan Senthilkumar from Tamil Nadu in a closely contested match, finishing with a score of 3-2. In the women’s category, Anahat Singh from Delhi triumphed over Akanksha Salunkhe from Goa, securing the title with a score of 3-2.

The winners were felicitated by distinguished chief guests Mrs. Kiran Nadar, an international Bridge player and gold medallist at the 5th Commonwealth Games, and Mr. N. Ramachandran, a Patron at SRFI. The event was further graced by Ms. Shaili Singh, Long Jump Athelete, and a member of India’s Olympic Gold Quest. Shaili, a Silver Medalist at the 2023 Asian Athletics Championships in Bangkok, praised the tournament.

This year’s championship marked the return of the event to Mumbai after a 17-year hiatus, reigniting the city’s passion for squash. Following India’s remarkable performance in doubles squash at the Asian Games last year, HCL reintroduced the Doubles Squash Championship in Chennai after 17 years, followed by the Nationals in Mumbai. These initiatives are part of the broader effort to revitalise the sport in India and provide a dynamic platform for emerging talent to shine on the national stage.

Rajat Chandolia, AVP and Head of Brand at HCL, expressed his pride in the success of the championship, stating, “We are setting a new benchmark with every tournament, this time with a record 670 participants from 25 states. We are thrilled to see the growing popularity of squash across India, and the introduction of the Women’s Over-35 category received a significant response. As part of our revamped Squash Podium Program, we’ve introduced several new initiatives such as the PSA Challenger Tournaments, High-Performance Camp for Asian & World Junior Championships, Referee Development Program, and Coach Development Program, all aimed at elevating the sport of squash to new heights. We’re proud to promote squash, gender inclusivity, and healthy lifestyles, celebrating not only our champions but also the spirit of Indian squash.”

Cyrus Poncha, Secretary General of the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), added, “We congratulate the winners on their outstanding performance and thank HCL for their unwavering support in promoting squash. The thrilling matches showcased the sport’s growing appeal. I am confident that Indian squash has a bright future, and these events will continue to unveil the stars of tomorrow. This partnership has been instrumental in fostering talent, encouraging inclusivity, and taking Indian squash to new heights.

This championship also served as a crucial selection platform for the World Squash Federation’s Men’s and Women’s World Team Championship, scheduled for December 2024 in Hong Kong.