Nagoya:Young Malaysian squash player C. Ameeshenraj emerged as a key player by securing the crucial point that led Malaysia to a 2-1 victory against defending champions India in the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games men's team squash semi-final at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, this victory propels Malaysia into the final and guarantees at least a repeat of their best finish in the men's team event since the 2018 Asian Games, improving upon the bronze medal secured at the Hangzhou 2022 edition.

Malaysia initially took the lead with Ng Eain Yow defeating Abhay Singh 11-8, 11-8, 11-8. India leveled the score when Veer Chotrani overcame Sanjay Jeeva 11-4, 11-8, 11-5. In the decisive match, Ameeshenraj recovered from a first-game loss to beat Velavan Senthilkumar 10-12, 11-6, 11-8, 11-9, sealing the victory for Malaysia.

Ameeshenraj expressed confidence in handling the pressure of the deciding match, explaining that he approached the game one point at a time and remained patient. He stated that India's favored status allowed him to play more freely, feeling that his team had nothing to lose.

He further revealed that he made tactical adjustments after the first game, recognizing that his opponent had anticipated his technique.

Malaysia is set to face Pakistan in the final, following Pakistan's 2-1 semi-final victory over Hong Kong. The Malaysian men's team last won the team event gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta-Palembang.