India’s Anahat Singh scripted history by becoming the first Indian in 21 years to reach the final of the World Junior Squash Championships after defeating Egypt’s Barb Sameh in the women’s singles semi-finals in Ontario, Canada, on Friday.

The tournament’s top seed produced a commanding display to beat the third/fourth seed 11-3, 8-11, 11-4, 11-6 and move within one win of becoming India’s first-ever World Junior squash champion.

Anahat, currently ranked world No. 20, had already secured a second consecutive medal at the tournament after reaching the semi-finals. The 17-year-old had claimed bronze in the previous edition and has now upgraded that finish with a place in the title clash.

Anahat one win away from maiden world junior title

The Delhi-based player made a flying start by taking the opening game 11-3 before Sameh fought back to level the contest by winning the second game 11-8.

Anahat quickly regained control of the match, dominating the third game 11-4 before sealing victory with an 11-6 win in the fourth to book her place in the final.

“I’m really happy. I played Barb a few months ago at the British Junior Open and it was a close match, so I knew I’d have to play really well,” Anahat said after the match.

“I didn’t play my best yesterday and knew I had to show what I’m capable of. I’ve played in four World Junior Championships and lost in the quarter-finals and semi-finals before, so reaching the final has made my parents and coaches really happy. But the tournament is not done yet,” she added.

Anahat will face Egypt’s second seed Ruqayya Salem in the final as she bids to become the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championships title.