Squash: Top talent converges on New Plymouth for national tournament

More than 130 squash players from across New Zealand will descend on New Plymouth this weekend for one of the country's leading development tournaments.

The Janes Gallery Central Open and PSA 2026 gets underway on Friday at the New Plymouth Squash Club, attracting 134 competitors from centres including Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, Palmerston North, Wellington and Christchurch.

Part of the Head Pro Tour series, the tournament is designed to help emerging players gain experience on the professional circuit and earn valuable world ranking points.

The competition features strong men's and women's fields, with 14 A-grade men and seven A-grade women competing for honours.

There is US$1000 in prize money available in both the men's and women's premier draws.

Tournament organisers said the event continued to grow in stature and provided a valuable opportunity for local players to test themselves against some of the country's best up-and-coming talent.

Action begins from 4.30pm on Friday, with professional matches scheduled from 6.15pm through until late in the evening.

Play continues throughout the weekend, with the professional draw resuming from 11am on Saturday and midday on Sunday.

The women's open final is scheduled for 2.15pm on Sunday, followed by the men's final at 3pm.

The tournament is backed by Janes Gallery owners Ross and Jane Gadsby, long-time supporters and members of the New Plymouth Squash Club.