India's junior women squash players marked a new chapter in the country's squash history by storming into the semi-finals of the World Junior women's championship in Cairo.

The trio of Joshna Chinappa, Vaidehi Reddy and Surpriya Balasker defeated a strong United States 2-1 to set up a semi-final clash with hosts and top seeds Egypt.

Reddy, as usual, provided a good start to the Indian team, winning her match against Claire Rein Weston 9-2, 9-4, 9-5.

The United States bounced back to tie the scores 1-1 after Supriya lost to Audrey Duboc, according to a Squash Rackets Federation of India statement.

Chinappa then clinched victory for India with a splendid display of aggressive and attacking squash to beat Lily Lorenrzen 6-9, 9-2, 9-1, 9-4.

Looking ahead at India's semi-final match, national coach Cyrus Poncha said, "Egypt will definitely be the favourites against India. However, my girls will try and give it their best shot. We are truly proud of the way they have been playing. They have shown true grit and team spirit."

The year 2003 has been a successful one for the Indian players. In January, Joshna Chinappa and Vaidehi Reddy made history when the former won the individual crown and then the duo claimed the team gold in the Asian Championship in Pakistan.