Veer Chotrani, Anahat Singh win Squash openers

Chicago

India's Veer Chotrani and Anahat Singh started strong at the Squash World Championships with big first-round wins on Saturday. Both players, making their debut in the event, moved into the second round after hard-fought victories.

Veer Chotrani, ranked 57th in the world, caused an upset by beating England’s former World No.15 Declan James 3-1. The scores were 11-9, 9-11, 12-10, and 16-14. Chotrani, who qualified by winning the Asia event, saved several set points and finally won after five match balls.

Chotrani said he was relieved and focused hard after remembering a recent loss when he let go of four match balls. This time, he stayed calm and determined to complete the win.

Next, he faces a tough challenge in four-time world champion Ali Farag in round two.

In the women’s draw, 16-year-old Anahat Singh also impressed. She defeated USA’s Marina Stefanoni 3-2 after trailing 2-1 in a thrilling 52-minute battle. The final scoreline was 10-12, 11-9, 6-11, 11-6, 11-6.

Anahat, ranked 62nd in the world, said the match was exhausting but she felt proud to win against a top-30 player. She shared how special it was to play in such a big tournament and to meet the world’s best squash players.

Both wins mark a strong start for India in this year’s World Championships, with fans now hoping for further progress from the young stars.