Indian Squash Players Qualify for 33rd Asian Junior Championships in China

Three young Indian squash players have successfully qualified for the 33rd Asian Junior Individual Squash Championships in China. Anika Dubey, Akanksha Gupta, and Vasundhara Nangare have demonstrated exceptional talent and determination in their journey. With their unique backgrounds and experiences, these athletes are set to represent India on a continental level. The selection process involved rigorous competitions, highlighting their dedication to the sport. Discover more about their inspiring stories and the challenges they overcame to reach this significant milestone.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 8, 2026, 00:17 IST

Young Talents Shine in Squash Selection

Three promising Indian squash athletes—Anika Dubey from Pune, Akanksha Gupta from Thane, and Vasundhara Nangare from Kalamb—have successfully passed the SRFI Selection Round for the upcoming 33rd Asian Junior Individual Squash Championships, set to take place in Panzhihua, China, in May 2026. Their selection was facilitated through the Kanga Kids initiative by Chance2Sports.

Introducing the Selected Players

Vasundhara Nangare, a 13-year-old from Kalamb in Ahmednagar district, has shown remarkable talent despite lacking prior competitive experience. She secured third place in the Under-15 Asian Junior Trials, positioning herself as a strong contender to represent India on the continental stage.

Anika Dubey, aged 15 and hailing from Pune, is already recognized as one of India's top junior squash talents. She earned a bronze medal in the Under-17 category at the 32nd Asian Junior Individual Championships in 2025, making her the sole representative from Pune and one of the few from Maharashtra to achieve this honor. Her participation in this year's selection round marks a significant milestone in her career, which began on public courts and has now reached an international level.

Completing the trio is Akanksha Gupta from Thane, who has steadily advanced through the domestic squash circuit. Having previously represented India at Asian Junior Championships, she returns this year equipped with valuable experience and the poise of an athlete accustomed to high-pressure selections.

Pathway to the Asian Junior Championships

Successfully clearing the SRFI Selection Round is a notable accomplishment for these players. Qualification is determined by national ranking points accumulated through various domestic competitions, including the Sub-Junior and Junior Nationals, the Indian Junior Open, and the Khelo India Youth Games. The selection matches, conducted at the Indian Squash Academy in Chennai under the supervision of SRFI and SAI, involve direct competitions to secure a spot in the potential squad.