After Sachika Ingale failed to keep her slate clean, losing to LiuTsz Ling without much resistance, it was left to Joshna not only to shore up India's stock but also to inspire her colleague Dipika to touch her best. Joshna did not put one foot wrong in taming the Hong Kong number one Annie Au, who at rank 10 was three ranks above the Indian in the world. Aggression was Joshna's ploy from the start, and with clever drives and drops left her rival clueless, winning in straight games. The onus was now on Dipika but the star player started on a diffident note against Joey Chan, who was the winner when the two met last two years ago in the Asian championship. The Indian led 10-8 in the first game but from game-ball position, lost and the inspired Hong Kong player went on to grab the next game too. Dipika looked shattered, but the experience brought out her fighting side and in a jiffy changed the game's complexion by bagging the next two games with explosive drives and astute drops and boasts. Taking the saddle she left Joey rooted to the spot in the decider to win in style and send cheers to her camp.

Alas that was not the scene in the men's section. India without a spearhead like Saurav Ghosal started on the defensive against Pakistan. Velavan Senthilkumar was the first to play against the experienced Farhan Mehboob. The youngster did well, even took a game but the Pakistani had the upper hand. Harinder Pal Sandhu next was again outstanding and even though he took five games, he beat the higher ranked Farhan Zaman and Indian hopes rose. All depended on Kush Kumar, but he failed to capitalise and like the last time, India settled for the bronze.

Report Courtesy: © SRFI Media