Somaiya Vidyavihar University Dominates at AIU Inter-University Squash Tournament

Somaiya Vidyavihar University Triumphs in Squash Championship

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 18: The men's and women's squash teams from Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU) achieved remarkable success at the AIU All India Inter-University Squash Tournament for the 2025-26 season, as reported in an official announcement.

Over a span of five days, 76 teams representing 36 universities across India competed fiercely, transforming the campus into a vibrant hub for university squash. In the women's final, SVU's elite student-athletes showcased their skills with a decisive 3-0 victory over Panjab University, Chandigarh. The men's team followed suit, clinching a thrilling 3-2 win against the University of Madras, Chennai, in a dramatic conclusion that highlighted the university's prowess in sports.

This double victory underscores the robust sporting framework at Somaiya Vidyavihar University and its dedication to fostering top-tier student-athletes. Equipped with state-of-the-art squash courts, expert coaching, and well-structured training programs, the university has emerged as a leading center for squash in India, inspiring young athletes and promoting the sport across various campuses.

Ajay Malik, an observer from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), remarked, “The increase in participation in university squash this year is truly impressive. From just 19 teams in 2022 during the inaugural season at SVU, we now have nearly 40 teams in the men's category and 36 in the women's. This growth reflects the rapid expansion of the sport within Indian universities. SVU managed the tournament exceptionally well, ensuring smooth operations for an event of this magnitude. I also commend the university for preparing to host the FISU World University Squash Championship later this year.”

In the women's final, led by Captain Nirupama Dubey, SVU delivered a confident performance against Panjab University, securing the championship title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.

Notable performances included Mona Chauhan (SVU) defeating Neha Rawat (PU) with scores of (11-2, 5-11, 11-7, 11-7), followed by Samairah Bhandare (SVU) winning against Anjali D/o Chander (PU) (11-2, 11-4, 11-4). The championship was sealed when Nirupama Dubey (SVU) triumphed over Bhumika Singh (PU) (11-1, 11-3, 11-1), igniting celebrations on the home courts.

Panjab University, Chandigarh, finished as the first runner-up, while the University of Delhi claimed third place after defeating the University of Kerala.

Aazaz Khan, Director of Somaiya Sports Academy, expressed, “Winning both the men's and women's titles is a proud moment for Somaiya Vidyavihar University. These victories are the result of years of cultivating the right sporting environment, employing licensed coaching professionals, and creating a development pathway that supports athletes from campus courts to national and international stages. As we prepare to host the FISU World University Squash Championship in August 2026, we are confident and ready for the global arena.”

Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, stated, “Sport has played a significant role in my journey since my student days at Cornell, shaping my belief that every student should have access to world-class sporting facilities. This conviction continues to guide our efforts at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, from building international-standard squash courts to developing coaching pathways that reach young athletes in rural areas like Laxmiwadi. As we host the FISU World University Squash Championship this August, we aim to field the strongest team representing our country. After winning bronze in the last edition in Johannesburg, our goal is clear: to bring home gold in both men's and women's categories.”

The men's final was one of the tournament's highlights, with Somaiya Vidyavihar University, under Captain Om Semwal, demonstrating resilience against the University of Madras, Chennai.

In the initial matches, Neil Paswan (SVU) lost to Navaneeth Prabhu S (UOM) (4-11, 4-11, 9-11), and Prince Yadav (SVU) fell to Sandesh PR (UOM) (3-11, 2-11, 3-11). However, SVU made a remarkable comeback. Om Semwal (SVU) defeated Matthew Godwia (UOM) (11-3, 11-1, 11-4), followed by Aayush Verma (SVU) overcoming Shrawin Jain (UOM) (11-3, 11-7, 11-6). The championship was clinched by Deepak Mandal (SVU), who delivered a stellar performance against Lokesh S (UOM) (11-3, 11-2, 11-1).

The University of Madras, Chennai, ended as the first runner-up, while the University of Delhi secured third place after defeating the University of Kerala.

Hosting the AIU All India Inter-University Squash Tournament for the fourth consecutive year highlights SVU's flourishing sporting ecosystem. Through the Somaiya Sports Academy, students benefit from professional coaching, structured training, and world-class facilities that prepare them for national and international competitions.

Later this year, Somaiya Vidyavihar University will host athletes from over 20 countries at the FISU World University Squash Championship 2026. This event will elevate global university squash in Mumbai, promote international collaboration, and reinforce SVU's status as a premier center for sports excellence in India.

The recent dual victory at the national championship marks a significant milestone, showcasing the university's dedication to developing student-athletes and inspiring the next generation of squash players.