India's Strong Start in Men's Squash at 2026 Asian Games

India has made a remarkable start at the 2026 Asian Games, particularly in men's squash, where they defeated China 3-0. Suraj Kumar Chand, Veer Chotrani, and Velavan Senthilkumar each secured victories, setting a strong tone for the tournament. The Indian team is also performing well in other sports, including cricket, archery, and shooting. However, challenges arose in sepaktakraw, where they faced elimination. As India continues its campaign, the focus remains on maintaining this momentum across various disciplines.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 28, 2026, 11:19 IST

India's Dominant Start in Men's Squash

India kicked off their men's team squash journey at the 2026 Asian Games with a resounding 3-0 victory over China in their initial pool match on Monday. Suraj Kumar Chand set the tone for the team by defeating Du Shaoqian decisively with scores of 11-4, 11-2, and 12-10.

Following this, Veer Chotrani further solidified India's lead by overcoming Li Haizhen, also with a 3-0 scoreline. Chotrani's games concluded with scores of 11-5, 11-5, and 11-3, ensuring India’s dominance in the tie. Velavan Senthilkumar capped off the match with another clean sweep, winning 11-3, 11-2, and 11-4.

This comprehensive win marks a strong beginning for India in the men's team competition at this prestigious multi-sport event. India is grouped with South Korea, whom they are set to compete against later today. The Indian men's squash team aims to maintain this momentum as they progress in Aichi-Nagoya.

Overview of India's Performance in Other Sports

India's performance at the 2026 Asian Games has been varied, with numerous athletes advancing in their respective events. In Kurash, Pincky Balhara triumphed over Lim Garam with a 3-0 victory in the women's 78kg quarterfinal, securing a medal for India. The men's cricket team has also moved to the semi-finals after their quarterfinal match against Afghanistan was called off due to rain, allowing India to advance based on their higher seeding.

In archery, both Chikitha Taniparthi and Jyothi Surekha Vennam won their matches in the women's compound individual Round of 32, while Ganesh Mani Ratnam Thirumuru and Sahil Jadhav progressed as well. Ganesh later triumphed over Sahil with a narrow score of 149-148 in the Round of 16, moving on to the quarterfinals.

In shooting, Neeru is currently leading the women's trap qualification after Day 2, while Shapath Bharadwaj holds the fifth position in the men's trap standings. The women's team of Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh, and Rahi Sarnobat finished fifth in the women's 25m pistol team final and qualified for the individual finals.

Additionally, India secured a 3-0 victory against Hong Kong in men's volleyball and achieved a similar result against China in the women's squash team event.

However, in sepaktakraw, India faced a setback, losing 1-2 to Japan and finishing last in Group B, leading to their elimination. In surfing, Kishore Kumar Anbarasu won against China's Ma Wensong, while Sivaraj Babu was defeated by the Philippines' Alciso Jayuard.