In a moment of pure sporting pride, India etched its name into the record books by winning all three titles at the 2nd Asian Squash Doubles Championships 2025 held in the Arena Emas in Kuching, Malaysia. From the intensity of the men’s final to the drama of the women’s decider and the finesse of the mixed doubles, Indian players stood tall across every court, defeating rivals from Pakistan and Malaysia to claim an unforgettable gold medal hat trick. 

More than just a collection of wins, this tournament showcased India’s emerging squash stars, the experience of veterans, and the country’s growing authority on the continental squash scene. The heroes of the hour, Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar, Joshna Chinappa, and 16-year-old Anahat Singh, carried not just their rackets but the hopes and pride of a nation.

What is Squash Doubles? A Quick Guide for New Fans

Squash doubles is a thrilling version of the traditional squash game, played by two teams of two players each inside a four-walled court. Unlike singles, where one player faces another, doubles matches feature four players sharing the same space, which makes the game much faster and more strategic. The ball must hit the front wall, and can also bounce off the side or back walls before being returned. Players from each team take turns hitting the ball, and a rally continues until one team commits an error, like missing the ball or hitting it out. 

Matches are typically played in a best-of-three format, with each game going up to 11 points, and a team must win by at least two points. What makes squash doubles so exciting is the quick pace, close coordination, and split-second decision-making required between partners. It’s a fast, action-packed sport, a mix of teamwork, agility, and sharp reflexes.

India’s Men’s Duo Roar Back to Beat Pakistan

In the men’s doubles final, Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar, the top-seeded Indian team, had to overcome both pressure and an inspired Pakistani duo. Noor Zaman and Nasir Iqbal stunned the Indians by taking the first game 11-9. But true to their reputation, Abhay and Velavan bounced back, using superior court control and sharp attacking play to win the next two games 11-5, 11-5 in a gritty 88-minute battle. This was not just a win; it was a title defense. The pair had also won gold in the 2024 edition, and now, with back-to-back championships, they’ve proven they are Asia’s best in men's squash doubles.

Joshna and Anahat: Experience Meets Youth

The women’s final brought another thriller. Joshna Chinappa, one of India’s most decorated squash players, teamed up with the young Anahat Singh, who, at just 16, showed nerves of steel. They faced a strong Malaysian team of Ainaa Amani and Xin Ying Yee, and after losing the first game 8-11, things looked tough. But the Indian pair dug deep. In a thrilling comeback, they edged the next two games 11-9 and 11-10, winning the final in 35 tense minutes. This win was a reflection of the perfect blend of Joshna’s experience and Anahat’s fearless energy—a symbolic passing of the torch from one generation to the next.

Mixed Doubles: The Crowning Jewel

Just when fans thought the day couldn’t get better, India made it three out of three. The top-seeded mixed pair of Abhay Singh and Anahat Singh sealed the sweep with a 2-0 win over Malaysia’s Rachel Arnold and Ameeshenraj Chandaran, winning 11-9, 11-7. The match was short, just 28 minutes, but packed with intelligent positioning, quick reflexes, and smart teamwork. For both Abhay and Anahat, it was their second gold of the tournament, making them the standout performers of the championship.

India has steadily been climbing the ranks in international squash, especially in doubles. With growing infrastructure, coaching support, and a string of youth stars emerging, this clean sweep is not just a surprise success; it’s a symbol of sustained growth and planning. Players like Anahat Singh, who made headlines even at the Commonwealth Games, are ushering in a new era, while seniors like Joshna Chinappa continue to lead by example.