Veteran Joshna Chinappa, teen star Anahat Singh to lead India's squash squad in Asian Games 2026
New Delhi, June 15
India on Monday named an eight-member squash squad for the 2026 Asian Games, with veteran Joshna Chinappa set to make her seventh consecutive appearance at the continental showpiece.
The 2026 Asian Games will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, with the squash events scheduled at the Nagoya Kinjo-Futo Arena between September 23 and October 3, as per Olympics.com.
Selected following trials conducted at the ISTA Academy in Chennai, the Indian squad combines experience and emerging talent.
Leading the contingent is 39-year-old Joshna, one of India's most accomplished squash players, alongside teenage sensation , who continues to establish herself as one of the sport's brightest young prospects.
The squad reflects India's intent to build on its recent success on the continental stage, blending seasoned campaigners with a new generation of players eager to make their mark at the Asian Games.
This year's edition carries added significance as the men's and women's singles champions will secure qualification spots for the LA 2028 Olympics, where squash will make its debut.
India's challenge in the singles events will be led by Abhay Singh and Veer Chotrani in the men's draw, while rising star Anahat Singh and Tanvi Khanna will represent the country in the women's competition.
For the mixed doubles event, India has named two partnerships: the experienced duo of Velavan Senthilkumar and Joshna Chinappa, alongside the pairing of Shameena Riaz and Suraj Chand. The combinations offer a balance of experience and youthful energy as India looks to mount a strong medal challenge at the Games.
India's Asian Games 2026 squash squad
Men: Abhay Singh, Veer Chotrani, Velavan Senthilkumar, Suraj Chand.
Women: Anahat Singh, Tanvi Khanna, Joshna Chinappa, Shameena Riaz.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive to see the trials were held in Chennai at the ISTA Academy. India's squash infrastructure is clearly improving, and selecting based on performance is the right approach. Anahat Singh at such a young age is remarkable—she could be a medal contender in 2026 and beyond.
Joshna Chinappa's dedication is unmatched—seven consecutive Asian Games is no joke! But I hope the selectors also focus on giving more exposure to the younger players like Suraj Chand and Shameena Riaz. Mixed doubles partnerships look promising. Squash debut in LA 2028 adds extra pressure, but our team can handle it! 🎾
Why is there no mention of other players who performed well in recent national tournaments? The selection process should be transparent. While Joshna and Anahat are obvious choices, Veer Chotrani has been inconsistent. Hope the team proves me wrong in Nagoya! 💪
Excellent blend of veterans and fresh faces! Abhay Singh and Tanvi Khanna have been performing well domestically, and the mixed doubles combinations are smart—Velavan and Joshna bring experience, while Shameena and Suraj add youthful energy. The Olympic qualification carrot is a game-changer.
So proud of Anahat Singh! At 16, she's already a star and now leading the women's singles along with Tanvi. This is the kind of pipeline we need for Indian squash. But let's not forget Joshna—she's been the backbone for years. Hope the team brings home multiple medals! 🙏✨