India’s talented young squash players are set to participate in the 2026 World Squash Junior Championships in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. The individual competition will run from July 20 to 25, followed by the men’s and women’s team events from July 26 to 31. Anahat Singh, the top seed, leads India’s strong contingent, aiming to excel in the women’s singles after securing a bronze in the previous year’s championship.
Anahat Singh, aged 18, holds the top seed in the women’s singles category, following a remarkable ascent in the sport. She is currently ranked world No. 20 on the senior PSA Tour and has clinched multiple PSA titles, establishing herself as one of the top young players globally. Winning in Canada would make her the first Indian to claim the junior world champion title, surpassing the country’s previous best result achieved by Joshna Chinappa in 2005.
While India’s prospects look promising, the competition is expected to be tough, especially with Egypt fielding a strong lineup. The women’s draw sees Ruqayya Salem as the second seed, with Malika Elkaraksy and Barb Sameh sharing the third/fourth seedings. Notably, the reigning champion Amina Orfi is ineligible this year, creating an open field for contenders.
In the men’s singles, India’s hopes rest on Aryaveer Dewan, the reigning Asian junior champion, who holds a 5/8 seeding. Dewan will face stiff competition, notably from Egypt’s Mohamad Zakaria, the two-time defending champion aiming for a historic third consecutive title. The Indian squad, comprising eight members, will also participate in the team championships starting on July 26, with both the men’s and women’s teams eyeing strong performances.
Defending champions Egypt are expected to pose a significant challenge in both the men’s and women’s team events. The tournament will witness over 180 players from around the world competing in the individual events before the team championships commence, featuring 40 teams from 24 nations vying for top honors.
