India’s rising dominance in squash was on full display at the JSW Indian Open 2026 in Mumbai, as Abhay Singh and Veer Chotrani delivered commanding performances to storm into the men’s semifinals.
On a day where Indian players asserted control across draws, it was the composure, tactical clarity, and maturity of these two that stood out, underlining their growing stature on the PSA circuit. With both players now two wins away from the title, the tournament has reached a stage where Indian men’s squash is not just competing but dictating terms.
Abhay Singh: Control, Composure, and Clinical Execution
Second seed Abhay Singh once again demonstrated why he is among India’s most reliable performers on tour, producing a well-rounded display to defeat Egypt’s Yassin Shohdy 3-1 (11-8, 7-11, 11-5, 11-7). Abhay started the match with intent, taking control of rallies early and forcing Shohdy onto the defensive. His ability to mix pace with precision allowed him to secure the opening game 11-8, setting the tone for the contest.
However, the Egyptian responded strongly in the second game, raising the tempo and disrupting Abhay’s rhythm to level the match at 1-1. This phase tested Abhay’s adaptability a critical trait at this level.
What followed, though, reflected his growing maturity. Instead of engaging in extended attritional rallies, Abhay adjusted his approach, injecting more aggression into his shot-making while maintaining tight control of the court. His improved court coverage and anticipation began to wear down Shohdy.
The third game saw Abhay regain dominance with an 11-5 win, where he dictated play from the front of the court. In the fourth, he maintained that intensity, closing out the match 11-7 with minimal errors. The victory was not just about progression it highlighted a player who is increasingly comfortable managing momentum shifts and executing under pressure.
Veer Chotrani: Efficiency and Tactical Discipline
If Abhay’s win was about controlled aggression, Veer Chotrani’s performance was a masterclass in efficiency. The fourth seed defeated Egypt’s Mohamed Sharaf in straight games, 3-0 (11-9, 11-8, 11-2), in what was arguably one of his most composed performances of the tournament. The opening two games were closely contested, with Sharaf matching Chotrani shot for shot. In the first game, the Egyptian even held the advantage for significant periods.
However, Chotrani’s ability to stay patient and pick the right moments to attack proved decisive. At 8-8 in the opening game, Chotrani shifted gears, executing precise winners and forcing errors to close it 11-9. That phase of play reflected his improved decision-making a key evolution in his game.
The second game followed a similar pattern, with Chotrani maintaining a narrow lead and controlling the tempo. His movement across the court was particularly sharp, allowing him to retrieve difficult shots and turn defence into attack.
By the third game, Sharaf’s resistance began to fade. Chotrani capitalised ruthlessly, dominating proceedings with aggressive shot selection and finishing the match 11-2. The straight-games win not only secured his semifinal spot but also conserved valuable energy for the rounds ahead.
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What stood out across both performances was a clear tactical evolution. Both Abhay and Veer displayed a balance between patience and aggression something that has often been a differentiator at the highest level.
Rather than relying solely on defensive retrieval or extended rallies, both players showed an ability to take initiative, control the T-position, and dictate points. This shift reflects the broader progress in Indian squash, where players are increasingly adapting to the demands of the modern game.
Semifinal Challenges Ahead
The road ahead, however, presents fresh challenges. Abhay Singh is set to face Malaysia’s Ameeshenraj Chandaran, a player known for his speed and attacking instincts. Meanwhile, Veer Chotrani will take on Sanjay Jeeva, another Malaysian who has looked in strong form throughout the tournament.
Both matches will test different aspects of their games Abhay’s ability to manage high-paced rallies and Veer’s consistency against aggressive opposition.
Playing on home soil has clearly worked in favour of the Indian players. Familiar conditions, coupled with strong crowd support, have provided an added layer of confidence. But beyond that, the performances reflect preparation and intent. For Abhay and Veer, this tournament represents more than just a title opportunity it is a platform to establish themselves as consistent contenders at the international level.
As the JSW Indian Open heads into its business end, the presence of two Indian players in the men’s semifinals signals a significant moment for the sport in the country. Abhay Singh’s composure and Veer Chotrani’s efficiency have set the tone. Now, the focus shifts to whether they can convert this momentum into a place in the final and potentially, an all-Indian title push.
If their quarterfinal performances are any indication, both players are not just ready for the challenge they are shaping the narrative of the tournament.
