In squash - The Podcast

Michael Absalom joins the In Squash Podcast to discuss his journey in squash, from his early days in the sport through to his work in broadcasting and his transition from MC to SquashTV analyst and commentator.

Michael shares his thoughts on the Shorbagy interview that made waves, the Asal hand grab controversy, the current men’s game and the players at the top of the sport, as well as the return of Nouran Gohar and the women’s game. We also look ahead to the new SquashTV season and discuss how squash broadcasting can continue to add value for fans.

A great conversation with one of the familiar voices behind the modern presentation of professional squash.

Follow Michael: @michaelabsalompresenter

The Nash Cup gets underway today as the Canadian swing of PSA events begins. Jay Nash discusses the build-up to the tournament, changes to the men’s draw and the challenges of navigating the unexpected when running a PSA event.

The women’s draw is stacked with some of the game’s best young talent, while two past Canadian Nash Cup champions, David Baillargeon and Hollie Naughton, return to the event. The conversation also covers the Nashionals, the strong squash culture in London, Ontario, and the impact of Jack Fairs on the game.

A behind-the-scenes look at the Nash Cup and the people and passion that continue to drive squash in Canada.

Newly crowned British National Champion Simon Herbert joins the In Squash Podcast for Episode 411.

Herbert reflects on his impressive run to the British National title, his chances heading into the event, and what it means to add his name to a list of past champions that includes some of the biggest names in squash.

The conversation also covers his experiences playing in Canada, the upcoming Nash Cup in London, Ontario, his work with coach Rob Owen, and his National Squash League title with the Chicago Grizzlies.

A great conversation with one of the rising names in the professional game.

George Parker returns to the In Squash Podcast for Episode 410, just months after winning the London Open and then retiring from the PSA Tour at the age of 29.

George reflects on his decision to walk away from professional squash, the highlights of his PSA career, his experiences with discipline and controversy on tour, and what life looks like away from the professional game. We also discuss his move into padel and what squash might be able to learn from the sport’s incredible global growth.

A fascinating conversation with one of England’s top squash players about leaving the tour, finding a new direction, and the next chapter.

Former World No. 3 Stuart Davenport joins us for a fascinating trip back to the golden era of squash and an inside look at what it takes to reach the very top of the game.

Davenport talks candidly about his own career and his experiences competing at the highest level, including his run to the semi-finals of the 1983 World Championships — an event dominated by the extraordinary Jahangir Khan, who went through the tournament without dropping a game.

But this conversation goes well beyond the history books.

Stuart breaks down the mental game of squash, including the importance of concentration, the ability to thrive within the chaos of a match, and the subtle skills that can separate the very best players in the world from those ranked much lower.

We also get into one of the less-discussed aspects of elite squash: working the referee — how players manage the relationship with the official, influence the rhythm of a match, and use every available edge to their advantage. Stuart shares his observations of players who have mastered this art across different generations.

And perhaps most intriguingly, Stuart offers his inside perspective on Paul Coll's remarkable rise from World No. 80 at the age of 23 to World No. 3 by 26. What did he see in Coll that helped explain such a rapid ascent? What separates a very good professional from a true virtuoso?

A fascinating conversation about performance, psychology, tactics, referees, chaos, concentration and what it really takes to become one of the best players in the world.