Ashab Irfan beats Indian rival, secures Pakistan’s Asian Games medal

NAGOYA: Pakistan’s Muhammad Ashab Irfan has secured another medal for the country at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026, producing a spirited comeback against India’s Veer Chotrani to reach the men’s singles squash semifinals.

The Pakistani player overcame Chotrani 3-1 in the quarterfinal, winning 11-6, 8-11, 11-3, 11-3. The victory guaranteed Pakistan at least a bronze medal in the event, with the semifinal winner moving into the gold-medal contest.

The match initially appeared to be heading in India’s favour after Chotrani responded strongly in the second game. Ashab, however, regained his composure and dominated the next two games to complete a convincing victory.

The result was particularly significant because Ashab had to overcome a difficult middle stage after surrendering the second game. His ability to regain control and close out the contest under pressure provided a major boost ahead of the semifinal.

Pakistan Squash Federation records show that Ashab entered the Asian Games singles competition as part of the country’s squad competing at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena. Pakistan’s squash campaign began on September 23, with the individual events scheduled through September 27.

Pakistan squash coach Fahim Gul praised Ashab’s performance, saying the comeback after losing the second game demonstrated his resilience and confidence. He expressed hope that the player would maintain the same level of performance in the semifinal and attempt to reach the final.

Ashab now faces another major challenge, with India’s top-seeded player awaiting him in the semifinal. Regardless of the result in that match, his quarterfinal victory means Pakistan has already secured a medal from the men’s singles squash event.

The achievement adds to Pakistan’s medal tally at the Games. Before Ashab’s success, Pakistan had already collected bronze medals through the women’s cricket team and Asim Khan in the 60kg mixed martial arts category, according to the information provided by Pakistan’s delegation.

The Asian Games are being held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, with squash among the sports contested during the Games.

For Ashab, the focus now shifts from securing a medal to pushing for a place in the final as Pakistan’s squash campaign gathers momentum.