New Delhi, Aug 22 (UNI) The 74th HCL National Squash Championship will commence from August 21 which will witness the participation of around 550 players across different categories, the highest number for any squash tournament in India till date.

  The seven-star tourney will be organised under the patronage of the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) and UP Squash Rackets Association. The Championship will be open to both, Men and Women in separate categories. Matches will also take place in other categories including Professional Coach, and over/35, over/40, over/45, over/50, over/55, over/60 for men only. The tournament will follow a knock-out format where top eight players will get the prize money in Men, Women and Professional Coach Categories; while only winners and runners-up will be awarded in the six other categories. The top players will receive ranking points and will be included in the National ranking list in the relevant age group. Speaking on the upcoming event, India Rank No 1 and World Rank No. 27, Saurav Ghosal commented, "Partnerships such as these build a sense of confidence that the future of the sport looks bright in our country. I am sure serious Squash players will be able to benefit immensely from such platforms." "Indian players have now started making their presence felt at an international level too which is a significant achievement for this otherwise niche sport. At a personal level, I am looking forward to play my best game and give a tough fight to my talented co-players at this prestigious platform," the India Rank No 1 further added. Arjuna awardee Joshna Chinappa, who had scripted history after becoming the first Indian to clinch the Asian Squash title earlier this year and was also present at the occasion, expressed, "It is a real pleasure to be part of HCL 74th National Squash Championship, which is being organised under the aegis of SRFI. Over the past few years now, the sport has started getting recognized at a national level and that has led to a greater support system being created for players to pursue the sport seriously." UNI RSD KU SHK 1638