Malaysia beat Egypt 2-0 to make first women's world team squash final

Malaysia pulled off a major upset by beating top seed and defending champions Egypt 2-0 in a dramatic semi-final at Mark Sachvie Squash Centre in Ontario, Canada, late Friday.

The win opens a new chapter in world squash for Malaysia who are making their first Women's World Team Championship final since the tournament's inception in 1979.

World number one Datuk Nicol David put up a brilliant display to give Malaysia the perfect start by beating world number three Raneem El Weleily; 11-3, 8-11, 11-7 and 11-9 in 54 minutes.

"She’s so on the ball. I had to work really hard. I’m just so pleased to get a point for Malaysia," Nicol said as quoted in the tournament's website www.wwt2014squash.com.

"I took some time off after Macau (Open) to refresh and regroup. I’m really enjoying the game now. Winning for Malaysia is a great feeling.

"I put my heart and soul into it,” added the jubilant Nicol who extended her unbeaten run in the tournament since 2004 to 32 matches.

Low Wee Wern ensured a final berth for Malaysia with a spirited display to upset world number four Nour El-Sherbini; 11-9, 8-11, 11-2, 7-11, 11-9 in a gruelling 86-minute match.

"Its amazing to be in the final for the first time. The Egyptian girls really gave their all. I am just so pleased for Nicol. For all these years, she won for us but the team let her down. Now we have finally done it for her.

"Nicol is not just a role model for me, but also a good friend. This is the first time I’ve given her the support she deserves. This win is huge, our biggest team success ever.

"Its massive but its not over yet,” added the 24-year-old Penangite, the world number seven.

Malaysia, who were seeded third, face another uphill battle in the final against 2012 finalist and second seed, England, late Saturday.

England, who lost to Egypt in 2012, survived a 2-1 dramatic semi-final battle against fourth seed Hong Kong. Malaysia's best achievement in the championship was third placing in the past four editions - 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2012.