Sangari’s class on glass as she hops over Egyptian hurdle in Zurich

PETALING JAYA: National squash ace S. Sivasangari looked like a class act on glass court when she sent Egypt’s world No. 17 Farida Mohamed packing in the second round of the Grasshopper Cup in Zurich on Wednesday.

But while the 11-4, 11-5 score may suggest a comfy win, Sivasangari insisted she endured a far tougher battle than it appeared to book her place in the last eight.

The 27-year-old Malaysian said the contest was actually quite physically demanding.

“I’ve played Farida a couple of times before,” said Sivasangari, noting that their head-to-head record is evenly split at two wins each.

“It’s always an intense match because she’s an attacking player. She’s also taller and bigger than me, and sometimes I struggle physically against her.

“It was more of a mental battle but I’m glad I stayed composed, took it point by point and didn’t overthink.”

In her way in today’s quarter-finals is another Egyptian, world No. 14 Nada Abbas who advanced after defeating compatriot Mariam Metwally 11-8, 11-9.

Sivasangari, however, holds the advantage having won four out of their five previous encounters.

Their most recent clash came at the El Gouna International Open earlier this month, where Sivasangari triumphed in the round of 32.

Sivasangari remains focused on taking things one step at a time as she eyes a place among the world’s elite.

“I hope I can get the win. I’m taking it step by step. Even though I’m ranked No. 6, I don’t want to put too much pressure on myself,” she said.

“Of course, I want to break into the top five soon. The players in the top five are very solid, and so are those just below.’’