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Coach Returns to Court: A Squash First!
13 May
Summary
- Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu is India's head squash coach and a player.
- He is competing in the National doubles championships in Chennai.
- This is the first time a national head coach is playing in an Open Nationals event.
Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu, who took over as the National head coach for India's senior squash teams in September 2025, is now back on the court as a player. The 37-year-old is competing in the men's doubles at the ongoing National doubles championships in Chennai, alongside 22-year-old Om Semwal. This participation is unprecedented in Indian squash, as it marks the first time a National head coach has entered an Open Nationals event.
Squash Rackets Federation of India Secretary Cyrus Poncha views Sandhu's involvement positively, citing his past success, including a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games. Poncha noted that Sandhu sought permission and that his participation offers valuable experience for other players. Sandhu himself expressed excitement about competing again, especially since doubles tournaments are not frequent. His original partner, Ramit Tandon, withdrew due to injury, leading to Sandhu partnering with Semwal. Meanwhile, seeded pairs in all categories received first-round byes.
