Indian squash player Tanvi Khanna caused a major upset in the opening round of the World Championship Qualifying Event (Asia) in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday. Khanna, ranked 134th in the world, defeated Hong Kong’s top seed N Ching Cheng, who was ranked 76th, in a thrilling match that ended 3-1 in her favor. With this victory, Khanna secured a place in the quarterfinals, where she will face Hong Kong’s Helen Tang, ranked 97th in the world.
This result marks a significant milestone in Tanvi Khanna’s career as she has been steadily improving and showing promise in recent years. Khanna’s victory was not only a personal triumph but also a major boost for Indian squash, as she overcame a higher-ranked opponent and showcased her potential to compete with the best in Asia. Her composure and skill under pressure were evident as she triumphed in four games, winning 11-7, 11-8, 8-11, and 12-10.
A Stunning Performance from Tanvi Khanna
Khanna’s performance was nothing short of exceptional as she took on Cheng in a match that was filled with intensity and determination. From the outset, Tanvi played with aggression and sharp focus, keeping Cheng on the back foot in the opening two games. She showed an impressive ability to control the pace of the rally and forced her opponent into errors, winning the first two games 11-7 and 11-8.
However, Cheng, known for her resilience, bounced back in the third game. She made necessary adjustments, played more patiently, and reduced her unforced errors, ultimately claiming the third game 11-8. This game gave Cheng a lifeline, and it seemed for a moment that the momentum had shifted in her favor.
But Tanvi, displaying immense maturity, did not let the shift in momentum affect her. In the fourth game, she maintained her composure, handled the pressure, and clinched a hard-fought 12-10 victory to seal the match. Her ability to hold her nerve in crucial moments showcased her mental strength and readiness to compete at the highest levels.
Khanna’s victory over Cheng was especially remarkable given the disparity in their world rankings. Khanna, ranked 134th, was not expected to get past the higher-ranked Cheng, but her performance proved otherwise. This win also marks a critical point in Tanvi Khanna’s journey as she continues to rise in the ranks of world squash.
A Look at the Quarterfinals: Tanvi vs. Helen Tang
Tanvi Khanna’s reward for defeating N Ching Cheng is a quarterfinal match-up against Helen Tang of Hong Kong, who is ranked 97th in the world. The clash between Khanna and Tang is expected to be another intense and tightly contested match. While Tang has a higher ranking, Tanvi will take confidence from her recent performance and the fact that she has already defeated a higher-ranked player.
Tang will be no easy opponent, but Khanna’s strong start in the tournament has shown that she can take on tough competition. The upcoming quarterfinal promises to be an exciting encounter, and Tanvi will be eager to continue her winning run and secure a place in the semifinals.
Anahat Singh Cruises into Quarterfinals
In another strong performance by Indian players, Anahat Singh, ranked 63rd in the world, comfortably defeated Jemyca Aribado of the Philippines, who is ranked 126th, 3-0. Anahat’s dominance on the court was evident as she won the match with scores of 11-4, 11-5, and 11-7. The result was never in doubt, and Anahat’s consistency and control over the rallies were key to her easy victory.
Anahat’s commanding performance reflects her solid growth in recent months. Known for her speed, agility, and tactical awareness, Anahat continued her impressive run by brushing aside her Filipino opponent. Now, Anahat will meet Japan’s Akari Midorikawa in the quarterfinals. This match will be a step up in competition, but with Anahat in such fine form, she will be eager to challenge Midorikawa and move closer to a potential semifinal appearance.
Akanksha Salunkhe’s Convincing Win
Second-seeded Akanksha Salunkhe, ranked 70th, also progressed smoothly to the quarterfinals. She defeated Japan’s Risa Sugimoto, who is ranked lower, 3-0. Akanksha dominated the match from the beginning, claiming each game with scores of 11-4, 11-3, and 11-8. Her fluid and precise shots overwhelmed Sugimoto, who could not find an answer to Salunkhe’s attacking style.
Akanksha’s victory sets up an intriguing quarterfinal clash against Singapore’s Wai Yhann Au Yeong, the sixth seed. The match promises to be a tough contest, but Akanksha has the tools and the confidence to go far in the tournament. If she continues her dominant form, she will have a strong chance of advancing further and potentially making a deep run in the event.
Veer Chotrani Leads the Men’s Charge
In the men’s competition, Veer Chotrani, ranked 63rd in the world, also achieved a comfortable win in the opening round. Chotrani defeated Malaysia’s Ong Sai Hung, who was ranked lower, 3-0. Chotrani played with precision and composure, winning the match 11-7, 11-8, and 14-12. His victory was a solid performance, showing his ability to handle pressure and finish the match strongly.
Chotrani now faces a tough test in the form of Malaysian Mohammad Syafiq Kamal in the quarterfinals. Kamal will be a formidable opponent, but Veer’s recent form and consistent performances on the circuit make him a strong contender to advance to the semifinals. The quarterfinal clash will be one to watch as both players will look to assert their dominance on the court.
Indian Players Shine Across the Board
The performances of Tanvi Khanna, Anahat Singh, Akanksha Salunkhe, and Veer Chotrani highlight the growing strength of Indian squash on the international stage. With players consistently making it to the later rounds of major tournaments, Indian squash has shown it is capable of competing at the highest level. The country’s talent pool continues to expand, and with each passing event, Indian players are proving that they belong among the best.
As the tournament progresses, Indian squash fans will be watching with great anticipation. The strong showings by the players in Kuala Lumpur have set the stage for exciting quarterfinals. The combination of experienced players and rising stars creates a dynamic squad that could continue to make waves in the world of squash.
Tanvi Khanna’s stunning upset over N Ching Cheng in the opening round of the World Championship Qualifying Event (Asia) in Kuala Lumpur is a momentous achievement. Alongside strong performances from Anahat Singh, Akanksha Salunkhe, and Veer Chotrani, Indian squash continues to rise on the global stage. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on these talented players as they aim to push their limits and achieve even greater success. With a mix of rising stars and experienced campaigners, the future of Indian squash looks incredibly bright.
