Joshna Chinnapa Hoping To Use Experience To Best Opponents At Asian Games

Joshna Chinnapa feels the quality of squash in the continent has improved in the past few years and the Indian is hoping to capitalise on her knowledge and experience to best her opponents at the upcoming Asian Games. The 36-year-old, who won the bronze medal in women's singles and a silver in the team event in the last edition, will be competing only in the individual competition at the Asian Games, starting in Hangzhou on September 23.

Despite eight-time world champion Nicol David of Malaysia not competing anymore, Joshna feels the Games won't be easy.

"Nicole did dominate for a long time. But the quality of Asian squash has gone up in the last few years, and it's going to be hard right from Round 1. You can't take anyone for granted," she said during a media interaction at the Indian Squash Academy here on Thursday.

"It's obviously not easy playing at this level. But I also possess quite some knowledge and experience. And hopefully, I can count on that at the Games.

"At this stage, I am ready to play anyone, as at this level, you have to be prepared to take on anyone. I will take it one day at a time," she continued.

With squash not featuring in the Olympic roster, Joshna stated that it is always special for her to win medals at the Asian Games especially since she is representing India at the highest level.

"Playing for India has always been the highlight of my career, and it's always something that I look forward to. It's, honestly, what has prolonged my career for so long." "Playing at these Games is always special since it happens every four years and it's very prestigious. The participating sides are at the top of their game. So, it's special to win a medal at these Games." The Asian Games-bound squash players