SUKMA 2026: Selangor Live Up to Predictions to Clinch Men’s Team Squash Gold
PETALING JAYA: The Selangor squad lived up to predictions when they successfully clinched the gold medal in the men’s team squash event after defeating Kedah 2-0 at the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA) at the Astaka MBPJ Sports Complex, today.
Selangor opened their winning account through G Keshvan who overcame Kedah’s player, Sim Yeak Wei, with a score of 3-1 in the first match.
Selangor’s second singles player, Nickhileswar Moganasundharam, then displayed dominance when he defeated Kedah’s player, Aqil Mirza Naim Khairil, 3-1 (9-11, 11-9, 11-2, 11-3), thus confirming an outright victory for Selangor.
For Nickhileswar, the success is very meaningful as it is his first gold medal at the SUKMA stage, thus soothing his disappointment after only winning a silver medal in the individual event earlier.
“I feel very relieved and happy. First of all, I dedicate this success to my teammates. The success of winning gold would not have become a reality if not for their support.
“We helped each other, gave support and won for one another like brothers. That is what makes us a strong team,” he told reporters.
He also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the coaching staff and all parties who have always supported him throughout his career.
For the record, Nickhileswar previously made history after becoming the first Malaysian player to win the United States Junior Open Squash Championship in Philadelphia, last year.
Meanwhile, Selangor coach S Deena Darshan described this victory as very sweet after toiling in training for almost a year, and finally they managed to achieve victory on home ground.
“I think the last time Selangor won gold in the team event was 10 or 15 years ago, and to win on home ground this time, it is very special.
“Although our team came in as favourites, our squad is unique because it consists of a majority of young players under 18 years old, unlike other states that field senior or professional players. In fact, half of these players are still eligible to represent Selangor in the next SUKMA,” he said.
Earlier, Penang defeated the Federal Territory 2-1 to win the bronze medal in the same event.
Meanwhile, in the women’s team event, Melaka won the gold medal after defeating Negeri Sembilan 2-1, while the Federal Territory finished third after overcoming Kedah.
The Selangor squash squad recorded a haul of one gold and one silver in this SUKMA edition through the men’s singles and men’s team events.
Media Selangor