KUALA LUMPUR: It was a memorable Father's Day for Malaysia as they swept the men's and women's crowns at the Asian Team Squash Championships in Dalian, China.
In the men's final, debutant C. Ameeshenraj was the hero, securing the winning point for Malaysia in a 2-1 victory over Hong Kong on Sunday.
The S. Sivasangari-led Malaysian women's team also defeated Hong Kong 2-0 in their final.
It marks Malaysia's fourth double in the championships, following their successes in 2006, 2008, and 2021.
Asian champion Ng Eain Yow started the ball rolling in the men's final with an 11-7, 11-8, 11-8 win over Lau Tsz Kwan.
However, Hong Kong levelled when Leung Chi Hin defeated Addeen Idrakie 4-11, 11-7, 11-2, 11-7.
It was then up to Bristol-based Ameeshenraj to deliver the win.
The 20-year-old delivered an impressive performance, defeating Tang Ming Hong 8-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-4 in 58 minutes to secure the title for Malaysia.
A delighted Ameeshenraj dedicated the victory to his father, M. Chandran, on Father's Day.
"Definitely a memorable debut for me. To win it on Father's Day is special. Dad, this is for you," said Ameeshenraj on Sunday.
World No. 10 S. Sivasangari and Rachel Arnold earned Malaysia the women's title with victories over Ho Tze Lok (10-12, 13-11, 11-6, 10-12, 11-8) and Tong Tsz Wing (11-6, 11-5, 11-8), respectively.
Team manager Nafzahizam Adnan said Malaysia have regained its status as a dominant force in Asian squash.
"Last year, the men's team only won a bronze at the Hangzhou Asian Games, but today, they lived up to their top billing.
"The women's team consolidated their status after winning the Asian Games gold. We had several young players in both teams, which bodes well for our future."
Nafzahizam praised Ameeshenraj for showing tremendous fighting spirit.
"Although he was against an experienced player, he showed a positive attitude and played an excellent match.
"He knew he could beat his opponent with long rallies and did it well," Nafzahizam added.
