The world meet, originally slated for Tauranga, New Zealand, had to be moved due to the strict travel restrictions in the country to curb the Covid-19 pandemic.

It will also be the first time the tournament is held in Asia since the 2007 edition in Chennai, India.

“We are naturally disappointed we won’t be returning to New Zealand, and I’d like to thank Squash New Zealand for their support and the work they put in prior to this decision being made,” WSF President Zena Wooldridge said.

“We are grateful to those nations who came forward to offer their help, particularly Malaysia for agreeing to pick this up at such short notice.

“The Squash Rackets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) have considerable pedigree in organising major squash events, so we are fortunate to have such a capable and willing alternative host, and we look forward to working with them closely to deliver a top-class tournament to close out the year.”

SRAM President Gerard Monteiro expressed his gratitude to Zena and WSF for acknowledging their capabilities to host the prestigious tournament.

“We welcome teams from across the world to Kuala Lumpur for a memorable squash gala complete with the legendary Malaysian hospitality. As a squash enthusiast and fanatic, there is no better sporting entertainment than watching professional squash players in competition,” he said.

The world meet serves as a consolation for SRAM, after missing out on hosting the 2020 Women’s World Team Championship due to the pandemic.

Malaysia have participated in the Men’s World Team Championship 18 times since 1979, but have never finished on the podium.

Their best-ever achievement being fifth-place finishes in 2005 and 2011.

Malaysia finished ninth in the 2019 edition in Washington.