It is often acknowledged that Joshna Chinnappa is one of the best players India has ever produced in squash. Her string of wins within the country and abroad are a true testimony of her prowess.
Four years ago, partnering Dipika Pallikal, the 31-year-old had provided Indian squash with a major breakthrough — gaining the first ever gold medal in the Commonwealth Games.
On Friday at the Oxenford studio courts here the Chennai-based champion Joshna Chinnappa warmed up well for the expected title defence, by getting to the women’s singles squash quarterfinals with an efficient 11-6, 11-8, 11-4 win over Tamika Saxby of Australia on Friday.
Attacking all the way and using the side walls well to wrong foot her opponent — a favourite with the crowds — Joshna required just 25 minutes to win this crucial tie and keep India’s singles hopes alive. The Indian will meet New Zealand’s Joelle King next.
Sadly, both Vikram Malhotra and Dipika Pallikal — who also featured in the pre-quarterfinals — could not repeat their Thursday’s performances and made their exits.
Pitted against reigning champion Nick Matthew, Malhotra raised hopes when he stole the second set from the Englishman. But with Matthew not allowing any leeway in the next two sets, it was curtains for Malhotra in 40 minutes.
Dipika, who ran into Alison Waters of England, surrendered to her rival’s power-packed shots.
The results (pre-quarterfinals): Men: Nick Matthew (Eng) bt Vikam Malhotra 11-6, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6.
Women: Joshna Chinnappa bt Tamika Saxby (Aus) 11-6, 11-8, 11-4; Alison Waters (Eng) bt Dipika Pallikal 11-3, 11-6, 11-2.
