Sports

Indian Women’s Shuttlers Seal Historic Final Berth At Badminton Asia Team Championships

February 17, 2024
Bharat Times

In a historic feat, Indian women’s badminton team scripted their maiden entry into the final at the Badminton Asia Team Championships by overcoming the formidable two-time champions Japan in a nail-biting semifinal, registering a 3-2 victory. The Indian contingent, led by the world No 23 pair Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, along with stellar performances from world No. 53 Ashmita Chaliha and the young sensation Anmol Kharb, showcased their mettle in a thrilling encounter.

Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, faced a tough challenge against Aya Ohori, succumbing to a 13-21, 20-22 defeat. However, Treesa and Gayatri bounced back in the first doubles, exhibiting exceptional play to outclass world No. 6 Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida in a 73-minute spectacle, levelling the score at 1-1.

Ashmita Chaliha, pitted against former world champion Nozomi Okuhara, delivered a stellar performance with an aggressive display, clinching a surprising 21-17, 21-14 victory. The doubles pairing of Sindhu and Ashwini Ponnappa faced a setback against Rena Miyaura and Ayako Sakuramoto, losing 14-21, 11-21 in 43 minutes.

Anmol Kharb Rises To Occasion In Asian Badminton Championships

With the overall score poised at 2-2, the young talent Anmol Kharb rose to the occasion, securing a pivotal 21-14, 21-18 victory against world No. 29 Natsuki Nidaira, propelling India into the much-coveted final.

India are now set to face Thailand in the final showdown on Sunday (February 18), maintaining hopes of securing their first-ever gold in the continental championship. The Indian team had previously secured bronze medals in the men’s team event during the 2016 and 2020 editions.

The Indian team is already guaranteed of its first-ever medal at the Asian Badminton Championships as soon as it reached the semifinals and are now on the verge of winning the gold.

(With Inputs From PTI)