Indians have it easy against Iran at Asian Squash C'ships

The Indian men and women breezed past teams from Iran on the opening day of the Asian Squash Championships here today.
The Saurav Ghosal-led men's team completed a 3-0 win over their Iranian counterparts before the women warmed up for their title defence with an identical scoreline at the Hong Kong Squash Centre.
Asia number one Ghosal, Harinder Pal Sandhu and Mahesh Mangaonkar played the opener. World No. 10 Dipika Pallikal, Joshana Chinappa and Anaka Alankamony did the job against the Iranian women.
While the top seeded men should find it comfortable against Qatar and Philippines tomorrow, the women have a battle on their hands as they take on hosts Hong Kong, whom they surprised in the 2012 final for their maiden title.

Pallikal admitted it would be tough for India to retain the crown and considering the challenge, the game against Hong Kong will be crucial.
"We first want to cross the Hong Kong hurdle and then think about the final," Pallikal told PTI.
India would also need to find a way to beat the mighty Malaysia if they are to repeat their feat.
"This time it is tougher with the return of Nicol David (World No.1 from Malaysia). The good thing is that Joshana and I are in good form. Hopefully, we can go all the way," she added.