Squash fans set for double-handed delight at Middleton

Squash fans are in for a rare treat this Saturday when two stars from the world stage come together to showcase their unique styles in a one-off exhibition match.
Robbie Temple, who will take on Peter MarshallRobbie Temple, who will take on Peter Marshall
Robbie Temple, who will take on Peter Marshall

The Duel Of The Double-Handers will see former world number two Peter Marshall - now 44 and the only player ever to play with a two-handed forehand and backhand - take on current Chichester PSL star Robbie Temple at Middleton Sports Club.

Temple, 29, is a left-hander, with a two-handed backhand, but if the ball goes over his head, he switches hands to smash the ball into the nick right-handed.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The match-up is the brainchild of Middleton’s new head squash coach, Zoë Shardlow.

“Both players are fascinating to watch,” said Shardlow. “Marshall, who hits the ball tighter than anyone else, was heading for the world number-one spot in the mid-90s when he was struck down by chronic fatigue syndrome which put him out of the game for four years. He then made an incredible comeback to win the national championships.

“I thought it would be amazing to bring him to Middleton for an event, and Robbie, with his individual style, seemed the ideal opponent.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to see some genuinely unique and inspirational players and promises to be a night to remember.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Some lucky local juniors will also have the chance to get on court with Temple, while Marshall will play a warm-up game with a former junior contemporary, Duncan Kynoch, an incredible flair-player from Chichester who captained England as a schoolboy and who first inspired Shardlow to excel at the game.

A short Q&A session will follow the main match and there will be some games of doubles, played with wooden racquets last seen in the 80s. Spectators may get a chance to join in, so should bring their kit.

Tickets, which include food, are available from Zoë Shardlow on 07841 194463, priced £20 or £10 for under 19s.

If you want to try squash or racketball or get back into playing, contact Zoë for a free introduction or refresher session.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking sports news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be among the first to know what’s going on.

1 Make this website your homepage

2 Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/pages/Sport-Sussex

3 Follow us on Twitter @SportSussex

4 Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

Share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Related topics: