Expressnews
Chennai: HCL Group, in association with the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), successfully concluded the third edition of the HCL Squash Doubles National Championships at the Indian Squash Academy (ISA), Chennai. Held from May 13 to 16, the tournament brought together some of India’s leading squash players and also served as the national selection event for the upcoming Asian Doubles Squash Championships to be held in Malaysia in June 2026.
Over four days, the championship witnessed competitive matches across categories, reflecting the growing strength and popularity of doubles squash in India. The tournament featured top Indian players including Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh, Rathika Seelan, Rahul Baitha, Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu, Velavan Senthilkumar, and several emerging talents from across the country.
Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar won in the men’s doubles with a score of 11-8 and 11-5. Joshna Chinappa and Rathika Seelan won in the women’s doubles with a score of 11-8, 11-4. Joshna Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar (against Abhay Singh and Rathika Seelan) won in the mixed doubles category with a score of 11-7 and 11-9. The winners were felicitated by the Chief Guest, Dr R. Natarajan (IRS), a 9-time National Champion, an Atlanta Olympian.
Sundar Mahalingam, President – Strategy, HCL Group, said, “The HCL National Doubles Squash Championships continue to showcase the growing depth of doubles squash talent in India. With Indian players making a stronger mark internationally, this format is clearly gaining momentum. At HCL, we believe the right platform can unlock human potential, and this championship reflects that belief. We congratulate all winners and participants, and wish the Indian contingent the very best for the 2nd Asian Doubles Squash Championships in Malaysia next month.”
Mr Cyrus Poncha, Secretary-General of the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI), said: “The HCL Squash Doubles National Championships has become an important platform for players preparing for international competitions. The performances this year reflect the growing depth in Indian squash and the increasing seriousness with which players are approaching the doubles format. Tournaments like these are crucial as we build strong combinations and prepare our athletes for major events such as the Asian Championships and beyond.”
The 2026 Championship concluded on a high note, setting the stage for a strong showing by Indian players on the continental stage later this year.
