KUCHING: Malaysia fell short in both the women’s and mixed doubles finals at the Second Asian Doubles Squash Championships, as India completed a clean sweep at the Sarawak Squash Centre today.
In the women’s doubles, Yee Xin Ying and Ainaa Amani put up a strong fight but were narrowly edged out by India’s Joshana Chinappa and Ahanat Singh, 8–11, 11–9, 11–10, in a gripping 35-minute battle.
“I think we both did really well and gave it our best. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the win.
“This was our first time partnering each other – hopefully, there’ll be more matches together in the future.”said Yee.
Ainaa said that for the doubles, it was their first time together.
“Coming into this, we only had one day to train, but we gave it our all.”added Ainaa.
In the mixed doubles final, Rachel Arnold and Ameeshenraj Chandaran were outplayed by India’s Ahanat Singh and Abhay Singh, 11–9, 11–7, sealing a dominant outing for the Indian squad.
“We started off well and had a four-point lead, but I think I took it a bit too easy and let it slip. If we had taken the first game, things could have gone differently.”said Rachel.
Ameeshenraj then said the duo had a good lead and were playing at a good pace.
“We should have finished it, but fatigue definitely played a part,” said Ameeshenraj.
Ameeshenraj also reflected on the physical and mental toll of the past two weeks.
“Mentally, it’s been tough. We’ve been here for two weeks, supporting our teammates. Both of us also played in the individual events; she (Rachel) even made the final,” he said.
Also in attendance to watch the finals was Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
