Squash World Teams C'ship: Indian Women’s team sweeps Italy, Men lose to Colombia

India's fortunes at the WSF World Teams Championship took another turn on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, with contrasting results for the men’s and women’s teams.

While the men’s team suffered a narrow defeat against Colombia in Group F, the women’s team dominated Italy with a clean sweep in Group C to seal a strong finish in the group stage.

Men’s Team: Colombia 2-1 India

The Indian men’s team faced a tough challenge against Colombia and fell 2-1 in a closely fought encounter.

Miguel Rodriguez gave Colombia an early advantage, defeating Abhay Singh 11-4, 11-8, 5-11, 11-4 in a 38-minute match.

Veer Chotrani brought India back into contention with a gritty 8-11, 9-11, 14-12, 5-11 victory over Juan Camilo Vargas in a 43-minute thriller.

However, Ronald Palomino clinched the decider for Colombia, overpowering Suraj Kumar Chand 11-5, 11-6, 11-3 in 29 minutes.

Despite their efforts, the Indian men’s team couldn’t secure a win and will now face Malaysia in the Round of 16.

Women’s Team: India 3-0 Italy

India’s women’s team bounced back in style, delivering a commanding 3-0 victory against Italy to continue their resurgence.

Anahat Singh set the tone with a dominant 11-3, 11-9, 11-3 win over Cristina Tartarone in just 22 minutes.

Akanksha Salunkhe followed suit, dismantling Flavia Miceli 11-3, 11-3, 11-1 in a lightning-quick 17-minute match.

Nirupama Dubey wrapped up the clean sweep with a clinical 11-4, 11-3, 11-1 win over Beatrice Filippi in just 15 minutes.

The victory sees the women’s team advance to the knockout stage, where they will face Australia in the Round of 16.

With the group stages concluded, the Indian men’s team will look to bounce back against Malaysia, while the women’s team aims to continue their strong form against Australia in the knockout stages.