How Did Indian Boys Shock Korea to Reach Semis in World Junior Squash?
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Synopsis
In a stunning upset, the Indian junior squash team has reached the semifinals of the 2025 World Squash Junior Championships after defeating South Korea. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian squash, as the boys aim for gold. Can they continue their momentum against the USA?
Key Takeaways
- India's junior squash team has reached the semifinals of the 2025 World Championships.
- This marks a significant achievement, securing a medal for the first time in 13 years.
- India defeated last edition's runners-up, South Korea, in the quarterfinals.
- Yusha Nafees played a crucial role by winning the first match against Korea.
- Arihant K S clinched the victory to secure India's place in the semifinals.
Cairo, July 30 (NationPress) The Indian men's junior squash team created a remarkable upset in the 2025 World Squash Junior Championships, defeating the higher-seeded and previous tournament runners-up, South Korea, to secure their place in the semifinals of the team competition held in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday.
This achievement marks the first time in 13 years that the team has clinched a medal in the competition and reached this stage since 2012.
Seeded fifth, India managed to topple the third-seeded Koreans, who were the finalists in 2024, by winning the quarterfinal match with a score of 2-1 at the Black Ball Sporting Club in Cairo. The match concluded with India overcoming South Korea on Wednesday.
India entered the quarterfinals confidently, having previously defeated Canada with a 2-0 victory. They are now assured of a bronze medal at the World Championship and will aim for a higher accolade in Thursday's semifinals against the United States, who also won their quarterfinal match against France with a similar scoreline.
In the quarterfinals, the Indian team kicked off with a strong performance as Yusha Nafees triumphed over Jeong Uk Ryu of Korea with scores of 11-5, 11-5, and 11-9 in the boys' singles.
The Koreans fought back, leveling the match when Sandhesh PR lost to Joo Young Na with scores of 4-11, 4-11, and 4-11. The decisive victory was clinched by Arihant K S, who overcame Jong-hyeok Lee in a thrilling match, winning 11-7, 11-13, 11-8, and 11-7 to secure India's semifinal berth.
Later, the Indian girls' squad will face the home team, Egypt, in their quarterfinal match, having reached this stage with a clean 3-0 victory over Brazil in the previous round.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the extraordinary accomplishment of the Indian junior squash team. Their victory over a higher-ranked opponent highlights their growth and potential on the international stage. With their sights set on a medal, the team's journey is a testament to the dedication and talent of these young athletes.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Indian men's junior squash team achieve?
The Indian men's junior squash team reached the semifinals of the 2025 World Squash Junior Championships by defeating South Korea.
When was the last time India reached the semifinals?
India last reached the semifinals of this tournament in 2012.
Who did India defeat in the quarterfinals?
India defeated South Korea with a score of 2-1 in the quarterfinals.
What is the significance of this victory?
This victory guarantees India a medal in the championship for the first time in 13 years.
Who will India face in the semifinals?
India will face the United States in the semifinals.
