India blank Brazil 4–0 in final pool match, set up quarterfinal clash with South Africa at Squash World Cup

Hosts India closed their Pool B campaign in emphatic fashion, completing a commanding 4–0 win over Brazil in their final league match of the SDAT Squash World Cup on Thursday.

Having already secured their passage to the quarterfinals, the Indians delivered another clinical team performance, underlining the depth and balance across their squad. They will now face South Africa in the last-eight stage.

India entered the match as overwhelming favourites against a young Brazilian side making its World Cup debut, and the gulf in experience was evident from the opening contest. National champion Velavan Senthilkumar, currently ranked 45 in the world, set the tone with a composed and authoritative 3–0 win over Pedro Mometto. Playing with clear intent and tight control, Velavan never allowed the Brazilian any momentum, sealing the tie 7–5, 7–2, 7–2.

Velavan’s ability to accelerate mid-rally and his clean ball-striking kept Mometto constantly under pressure. After a brief tussle in the opening game, the Indian stepped up the pace, forcing errors and dictating play from the ‘T’. The victory not only gave India the early lead but also reinforced his role as the team’s reliable opener heading into the knockout stage.

Up next was the in-form Anahat Singh, the 17-year-old prodigy who has been a standout performer for India throughout the pool phase. True to her reputation, Anahat produced another blistering performance to defeat Laura Da Silva 7–4, 7–0, 7–2 in just 14 minutes. Her speed, precision, and aggressive court coverage overwhelmed Da Silva, who struggled to stay in the rallies.

Anahat’s second game whitewash showcased the level at which she is currently operating confident, disciplined, and tactically sharp. The youngster’s ability to dominate the middle of the court and finish points early gives India a significant advantage in the mixed-team format.

With a 2–0 lead secured, India turned to Abhay Singh, ranked 29 in the world, to wrap up the tie and he did so with authority. Facing Diego Gobbi, Abhay maintained complete command, winning 7–3, 7–1, 7–1. His superior movement and tight length constantly pushed Gobbi to the back corners, creating attacking opportunities that Abhay executed with precision. The Chennai player has grown increasingly confident through the event, and his continued run of form will be crucial as India advance.

The final match saw veteran Joshna Chinappa receive a walkover after Brazil’s Bruna Pererillo withdrew. While the match did not take place on court, Joshna’s presence and experience continue to add stability to an otherwise young Indian squad.

India’s 4–0 sweep not only gave them a perfect finish to their pool campaign but also showcased the team’s collective strength a blend of youth, experience, consistency, and tactical maturity. Velavan and Abhay have looked solid in their men’s singles roles, while Anahat’s dominance has been one of the stories of the tournament. Joshna’s leadership and composure have further reinforced the group’s confidence.

With this victory, India top Pool B and advance to a quarterfinal showdown against South Africa, a team known for its fighting spirit and physicality. The hosts, however, will enter the contest as favourites, buoyed by their form and home support.

As Chennai gears up for the knockout phase, India’s performance against Brazil sends a strong message they are not just contenders, but serious challengers for the 2025 Squash World Cup title.