CHENNAI: The Squash World Cup 2023 kicked off with a resounding triumph for India as they whitewashed Hong Kong 4-0 in the inaugural match of Pool B at the Express Avenue Mall. After a hiatus of 12 years, the competition returned to action on Tuesday, captivating the enthusiastic home crowd.
India, the second-seeded team, demonstrated a stellar start to their Pool B campaign by securing four consecutive victories against Hong Kong, China.
Abhay Singh initiated India's journey with a remarkable performance, defeating Chung Yat Long with a scoreline of 7-2, 7-3, 7-6. Following suit, Joshna Chinappa overpowered Ching Hei Fund 7-1, 7-5, 7-5, contributing to India's 2-0 lead.
Despite losing the first game, Saurav Ghosal, the medallist from the 2014 Asian Games, staged an impressive comeback against Andes Ling, ultimately prevailing with a score of 5-7, 7-2, 7-5, 7-1. Additionally, Tanvi Khanna exhibited great resilience, recovering from a two-game deficit to defeat Toby Tae with a scoreline of 5-7, 6-7, 7-1, 7-4, 7-3, securing a comprehensive victory for India.
India's next challenge will be against South Africa on Wednesday in Pool B, following South Africa's 3-1 loss to Japan, the third-seeded team, in the opening tie of the day.
In Pool A, the pre-tournament favorites and defending champions, Egypt, showcased their exceptional skills by dominating Australia.
Egypt commenced their campaign with Karim El Hammamy bouncing back from a challenging start to defeat Nicholas Calvert 3-1. Fayrouz Aboelkheir mirrored the triumph as she fought back from a game down to secure a victory of the same scoreline against Jessica Turnbull.
The remaining matches proved to be more comfortable for Egypt, with Aly Abou Eleinen and Kenzy Ayman triumphing over Joseph White and Alexandra Haydon in straight games.
On Wednesday, Egypt will face Colombia, the No.8 seeds, who suffered a 3-1 defeat to Malaysia, the No.4 seeds.
The title contenders in Chennai include eight teams: hosts India, Australia, Colombia, Egypt, Hong Kong China, Japan, Malaysia, and South Africa. Egypt, the reigning champions, claimed the title in 2011.
The Squash World Cup 2023 is divided into two phases: the first group stage and the second knockout/classification stage.
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