As the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 approaches, Kenya's squash team is intensifying its training at the Parklands Sports Club under the guidance of Coach Prince Mukuka Junior, a former Kenya number one squash player.
Coach Prince, who is confident in the team's capabilities, expressed optimism about their chances of making it to the medal bracket. 'We began our training last year, and I can say the players have been responding well. 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,' he added.
One of the team's key players, Khaaliqa Nimji, made history as the youngest Kenyan to represent the country at a multi-sport event in the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. She will be making her third appearance at the Games, having previously won three matches and reached the semifinals in Gold Coast, Australia in 2018.
Nimji shared her expectations for the upcoming Games and emphasized the importance of exposing more women to the sport. '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,' she said.
The men's category will be led by England-based seed one Muqtadir Nimji and James Dalidi, who has extensive experience in the Kenyan squash scene. Speaking during their training session, James expressed his hopes of making a debut at the Commonwealth Games and the men's World Championships next year.
'We are training hard here with the aim of going to Birmingham and at least bringing silverware. The skills we gain during this time will do a long way in helping us prepare for other competitions beyond the Commonwealth Games,' James said.
