The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, UK, are just around the corner, and the Kenyan squash team is optimistic about its chances of securing a medal.
Under the guidance of Coach Prince Mukuka Junior, a former Kenya number one squash player, the team has been training at the Parklands Sports Club since last year.
Coach Prince expressed confidence in the team's capabilities, stating, "We began our training last year and I can say the players have been responding well and I am sure they will do their best. We are currently looking to get tournaments for our players so that they are well prepared when the time comes I believe we will make it to the podium."
One of the team's star players, Khaaliqa Nimji, made history at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games as the youngest Kenyan to represent the country at a multi-sport event. She will be hoping to better her performance at the upcoming Games.
Khaaliqa has already made two appearances on the Commonwealth Games stage, including a semifinal finish in Gold Coast, Australia, in 2018. She shared her expectations for the upcoming Games, saying, "The first one in 2010 was majorly for exposure and experience but I feel like each commonwealth Games I have been getting better. I have been playing with great players therefore there is a lot of progress I have made as a player. I think we need more exposure to women in the game."
The men's category will be led by England-based seed one Muqtadir Nimji and James Dalidi, who has vast experience in the Kenyan squash scene. James expressed his hopes for the Games, saying, "We are training hard here with the aim is to go to Birmingham and at least bring silverware. The skills we gain during this time will do a long way in helping us prepare for other competitions beyond the commonwealth Games."
