KUCHING: Sarawak has once again demonstrated its capability as an international sporting destination after being selected to host the 3rd Asian Doubles Squash Championship 2026, which will take place from 18 to 21 June at the Sarawak Squash Centre along Jalan Diplomatik here.

Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the state's selection as host for the second consecutive year reflects the confidence of the Asian squash community in Sarawak’s ability to organise world-class sporting events.

According to him, this marks the first time the Squash Racquets Association of Sarawak (SRAS) has been entrusted with full responsibility for organising the championship following the successful co-hosting of the 2025 edition with the Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM).

“This can be regarded as a major championship with the participation of nine countries, namely Taiwan, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, Singapore and Thailand.

“The championship will feature three categories, namely Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles. In 2026, we are truly honoured to once again be given the opportunity to host this tournament,” he said during a press conference at Baitulmakmur on Monday.

He added that the championship will bring together 69 players and 21 officials, featuring some of Asia’s finest doubles squash talents as they compete for regional honours.

The tournament is expected to provide spectators with exciting matches and intense competition as athletes battle for championship titles.

He noted that squash enthusiasts would be particularly eager to watch several top players who will be competing in the event.

Among them is the pair from India, Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar who returned as the defending champions in the Men's Doubles category and remain among the favourites to retain their title.

“In the Women’s Doubles category, Joshna Chinappa will return to defend the title she won previously. However, she will be partnering a new teammate following the absence of Anahat Singh from India’s squad this year,” he explained.

He added that the Mixed Doubles category is also expected to be highly competitive.

While defending champions Abhay Singh and Anahat Singh will not reunite this year, Abhay will compete with a new partner in a bid to retain the title.

Dato Sri Abdul Karim therefore invited the public, sports enthusiasts and local communities to attend the championship, support the athletes and witness world-class squash action in Kuching. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Translator: Nerissa Sia