A record number of 26 nations, including India, will be taking part in the 2012 edition of the women’s world team squash championship to be hosted by France in Nimes, from November 12 to 17.
The Indian team is led by 21-year-old World No. 14 Dipika Pallikal and her teammates include the experienced Joshna Chinappa (No. 32), Asian junior champion Anaka Alankamony (No. 73) and junior No. 2 Aparajitha Balamurukan (No.142). Cyrus Poncha and Maj. (retd.) S. Maniam will accompany the side as coaches.
In 2010, the Indians finished 11th overall but are confident of doing better this time, according to National coach Poncha.
Seeded 10th, India needs to beat Ireland and Argentina in its pool (G) to top its pool before playing the round of 16 against the corresponding country from the pool (H). Argentina, Korea and Namibia are competing for the first time.
The line-ups (with seeding in brackets): Pool A: [1] England, [16] Scotland, [23] Republic of Korea; Pool B: [2] Egypt, [15] Wales, [24] Mexico; Pool C: [3] Malaysia, [14] South Africa, [19] China, [26] Spain; Pool D: [4] Hong Kong China, [13] Czech Republic, [20] Colombia, [25] Namibia; Pool E: [5] New Zealand, [12] USA, [22] Japan; Pool F: [6] Australia, [11] Canada, [18] Austria.
Pool G: [7] Ireland, [10] India, [17] Argentina; Pool H: [8] Netherlands, [9] France, [21] Germany.
Keywords: squash, Dipika Pallikal
