Mumbai, Mar 13: Squash is widely regarded as one of the most physically demanding racquet sports in the world. Combining intense physical endurance with tactical precision, the sport is defined by fast rallies, strategic shot-making, and quick reflexes. As squash prepares to make its historic debut at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, interest in the sport is rapidly growing worldwide.
Amid this rising momentum, the JSW Indian Open 2026 will return for its second season from 18–22 March 2026 at the iconic Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai. Following a successful inaugural edition, the tournament will once again bring together leading Indian and international squash players, offering fans an opportunity to witness top-level competition live.
As the sport continues to gain popularity ahead of its Olympic milestone, understanding the basics of squash can help new fans better appreciate the intensity and strategy behind the game. Here are seven key fundamentals every spectator should know:
1. The Court
Squash is played inside a fully enclosed four-walled court. Players hit the ball against the front wall while keeping it within marked boundaries on the walls. The ‘tin’, located at the bottom of the front wall, acts like a net—if the ball strikes it, the rally ends immediately.
2. Winning the Rally
The objective is to hit the ball so that the opponent cannot return it before it bounces twice. Players use a mix of powerful drives, angled shots, and soft touch shots to outmaneuver their opponent.
3. The Scoring System
Professional squash uses the Point-A-Rally (PAR) scoring system. Each rally awards a point regardless of who served. Games are played to 11 points, and a player must win by at least two points if the score reaches 10-10.
4. The Serve
Every rally begins with a serve. The server must hit the ball above the service line on the front wall, ensuring it lands in the opponent’s back court. The player who wins the rally retains the serve.
5. The ‘T’ – The Most Important Position
The ‘T’, located at the centre of the court, is a crucial position in squash. Players aim to return here after every shot, allowing them to move quickly and cover the entire court efficiently.
6. Lets and Strokes
Because both players share the same playing space, interference can occur. A ‘let’ is called when a rally is replayed due to minor obstruction, while a ‘stroke’ is awarded when a player is denied a clear winning shot.
7. A Game of Speed and Strategy
Squash is not just about power. Top players rely on drop shots, volleys, and tight drives along the wall to control the pace of the rally. Fitness, anticipation, and tactical awareness are essential elements of the game.
With its high-speed action and strategic complexity, squash offers spectators an engaging and dynamic viewing experience. The upcoming JSW Indian Open 2026 is set to showcase the sport at its finest while building excitement in India as squash moves closer to its historic Olympic debut.
