Aarav and Sashana Lead Malaysia's Golden Run at Colombo Open Squash Championships

Malaysia's next generation of squash players has given the nation plenty to celebrate after delivering an impressive performance at the Colombo Open Squash Championships in Sri Lanka.

Competing in the Asian Junior Super Series tournament, four young Malaysians emerged as champions, proving that the country's future in squash is in good hands.

Leading the charge were Under-13 champions Aarav Dinesh and Sashana Istritharan, whose dominant performances capped off a memorable tournament for Team Malaysia.

Negeri Sembilan's Aarav Dinesh entered the tournament with high expectations and lived up to them in spectacular fashion.

He stormed through every match without dropping a single game before defeating Hong Kong's third seed, Kwok Yau Yau, 11-7, 12-10, 11-4 in the boys' Under-13 final.

For Aarav, the victory is more than just another trophy.

“I will work harder and continue improving. The victory is a personal milestone, and I hope to achieve more in the sport,” he said.

His words reflect the mindset of a young athlete already looking beyond today's success towards even bigger dreams. In the girls' Under-13 final, second seed Sashana Istritharan produced another commanding performance, defeating fellow Malaysian and third seed Janelle Ong 11-1, 11-5, 11-5.

While lifting the trophy was a proud moment, Sashana was quick to credit the people who helped her reach it.

“The victory is not just mine. It also belongs to my coaches, family and everyone who has pushed me to achieve success.

“We achieved this victory together,” she said.

Her heartfelt words served as a reminder that behind every young champion is a team of supporters who believe in them every step of the way. The celebrations did not end with the Under-13 victories. Malaysia also captured both Under-11 titles, completing an impressive four-title haul at the tournament.

In the boys' Under-11 final, Nivethan Ganesh Kumar fought back in a thrilling five-game battle to overcome Singapore's Aprameya Ravi 14-12, 6-11, 10-12, 11-7, 11-7.

Meanwhile, Naira Fatinraeesya showed resilience after dropping the opening game before defeating Hong Kong's Audrey Lam 7-11, 11-7, 11-3, 11-6 to claim the girls' title.

Winning four championship titles at an international junior tournament is more than a medal tally. It is a glimpse into the bright future of Malaysian squash.

For Aarav, Sashana, Nivethan and Naira, these victories are important milestones in their young careers. For Malaysia, they are a reminder that the country's next generation of athletes is already making its mark on the international stage.

If this tournament is any indication, these young champions are only just getting started.

Source / Image Credit : NST