SQUASH
Squash is one of the fastest indoor racket sports in the world, demanding agility, strategy, and lightning-quick reflexes. Played within a four-walled court, it is a thrilling test of both physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Origin and History: The game of squash originated in the early 19th century at Harrow School in England. It evolved from an older game called rackets, where players hit a ball against walls. Students noticed that a punctured ball, which “squashed” when it hit the wall, offered a more challenging and exciting game—thus the name squash was born.
Over time, the sport spread to other countries, and by the 20th century, squash courts were being built across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. Today, it is played in over 185 countries.
The Court and Equipment: A squash court is a rectangular, four-walled room with a wooden floor and marked boundaries.
The front wall has service lines and a lower “tin” area (similar to a net in tennis).
Players use a lightweight racket, slightly smaller than a tennis racket.
The ball is small, hollow, and made of rubber — it comes in different types based on speed and bounce (indicated by coloured dots).
Rules of the Game:
● Squash is played either singles (one-on-one) or doubles (two teams of two).
● The players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall, ensuring it lands above the tin and below the outline.
● The ball can bounce once on the floor before being returned.
● A rally continues until one player fails to make a valid return.
● Matches are usually played to the best of five games, and each game is played to 11 points.
● Scoring is based on the Point-a-Rally (PAR) system, where every rally results in a point, regardless of who serves.
Skills and Fitness: Squash is known for its intensity. A top-level match can burn up to 1000 calories per hour!
It helps improve: speed and endurance, hand-eye coordination, flexibility and balance, strategic thinking
Players must anticipate their opponent’s moves and control the game’s pace through clever shot placement.
Major Tournaments and Players:
Some of the most prestigious squash events include:
The British Open
The PSA World Championships
The U.S. Open
The Egyptian Open
Countries like Egypt, England, Pakistan, and Malaysia have produced many world champions such as Jahangir Khan, Jansher Khan, Nicol David, and Ali Farag.
Squash in India: Squash has gained popularity in India in recent years. Indian players like Saurav Ghosal, Joshna Chinappa, and Dipika Pallikal Karthik have achieved international success.
Several schools and clubs now offer squash facilities, and the Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) promotes the game actively across the country.
Did You Know?
● Squash was once voted the world’s healthiest sport by Forbes magazine because it provides an all-round workout.
● The ball’s bounce changes with temperature — players often warm it up before starting!
● The word “let” is used when a rally is replayed due to accidental interference between players.
Conclusion: Squash is much more than just hitting a ball against a wall — it’s a fast, strategic, and fitness-oriented sport that sharpens both body and mind. Whether played for recreation or competition, it teaches focus, discipline, and sportsmanship. With growing awareness and facilities, squash is steadily finding its place among the popular games of the modern world.
