Malaysia set to welcome back world meet after 24 years

PETALING JAYA: After 24 years, the Women’s World Team Squash Championship will finally see its return to Malaysia in 2020.

The biennial event is set to hold its 22nd edition at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil from Dec 15-20 in two years time.

The baton will be passed to Malaysia after this year’s competition which will be staged in Dalian, China, next month.

“We are delighted that Malaysia will host our Women’s World Team Championship in 2020,” said World Squash Federation President Jacques Fontaine on the PSA World Tour website.

“The enthusiasm for squash is second to none in Malaysia, and the press and broadcast output is wonderful too.”

“So this, coupled with the warm hospitality and effective management that we know the visiting teams will receive, is something to look forward to after the much-awaited staging of the 2018 Championship in Dalian, China, next month.”

Malaysia last played host in 1996, where the tournament was played at the Astaka Sports Complex here which saw Malaysia finish in 17th spot at the world meet.

The 2020 edition will be Malaysia’s 15th appearance after making its debut in 1990.

The women’s team led by eighttime world champion Nicol David accomplished their best feat at the championship when they finished runners-up to England in 2014.

Squash Racquets Association Malaysia president Nik Razeen Daud said it was an honour for Malaysia to be confirmed as hosts for the championship.

“We are excited. We are looking forward to welcoming the world’s best women’s teams to Malaysia, and will be going all out to make this a successful and memorable event.”