Willstrop says Anahat Singh’s front-court attack could become unplayable as she matures

James Willstrop, part of the coaching staff for India’s Asian Games squash contingent, said at the Indian Squash Academy in Chennai on Thursday that Anahat Singh’s instinctive attacking makes her “a very unusual player,” and he expects her to become harder to beat as she develops ahead of the Asian Games 2026.

Willstrop, a former World No. 1 who was at the ISA during a practice session that included player Shameena Riaz, spoke on Thursday ahead of the squad’s departure for Japan on Friday. He singled out Anahat’s front-of-court instincts, saying: “She’s got this instinct to go into the front of the court and to hit accurately short. I’ve very rarely seen it being done the way she’s doing it by someone as good as she is.”

Describing her style in further detail, Willstrop added: “I mean, she’s a very unusual player. Unusual in that she attacks the front so clinically and more often than the other girls. So, the other girls are constantly on edge.”

Willstrop noted Anahat’s age and experience relative to her peers, calling her “very young” and “relatively inexperienced compared to her compatriots.” He said: “She’s a baby. She’s barely played any platinum events. She’s up against them, but then she’s probably got a little bit less pressure than they have.”

Projecting forward, Willstrop outlined how physical and tactical development could change the challenge she poses to opponents: “The girls are already struggling with her now because of her sheer instinct and attack. Give her a few more years. When she gets the physical strength, becomes even more disciplined, and gets even more understanding of constructing rallies, it’s going to be a real nightmare for the opponents. She’s a wonderful prospect.”

On his role and India’s medal chances, Willstrop said he would provide “tactical support” and help players make the most of his “experience.” He called Anahat “obviously a big prospect for a medal chance — that could be gold,” and added that “Abhay (Singh) and Veer (Chotrani) have great chances.” He also said: “I’ve seen Veer push Ali Farag very hard at the World Championships. I’ve seen him play some fabulous squash. If he can produce that, there’s a massive chance of a medal.”

The 43-year-old coach will travel with the Indian squad when they depart for Japan on Friday for the Asian Games, where he will serve as part of the coaching staff.