Indian Women Medal in Badminton Asia
Indian Women Make History in Badminton Asia
In a historic moment for Indian women’s badminton, the team secured a remarkable 3-0 victory over Hong Kong, marking their first-ever advancement to the semi-finals of the Badminton Asia Team Championships in Selangor, Malaysia, on Friday.
India, who surprised many by defeating China earlier in the week to lead Group W, took full advantage of a favorable quarter-final draw. Leading the charge once again was two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu.
Sindhu, returning to the court after a prolonged injury layoff, got off to a strong start against Lo Sin Yan Happy. Despite facing a setback in the second game, Sindhu maintained her composure to secure a hard-fought 21-7, 16-21, 21-12 victory, giving India the crucial lead.
While Sindhu dominated the opening game, Lo posed a formidable challenge in the second, using her deceptive strokes to trouble Sindhu and force a decider. However, Sindhu showcased her superiority in the final game, starting aggressively and controlling the match throughout.
Following Sindhu’s triumph, the women’s doubles pair of Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa displayed exceptional form by defeating the world no. 18 duo of Yeung Nga Ting and Yeung Pui Lam with a commanding score of 21-10, 21-14, bringing India closer to securing a semi-final berth.
Ashmita Chaliha then sealed the quarterfinal victory with a convincing 21-12, 21-13 win over Yeung Sum Yee.
With a guaranteed medal, India now eagerly awaits the outcome of the quarterfinal match between top-seeded Japan and China.
Later in the day, the Indian men’s team will take on Japan in their quarter-final encounter.
In the quarterfinals, the Indian women’s team outclassed Hong Kong with a flawless performance:
- PV Sindhu defeated Lo Sin Yan Happy 21-7, 16-21, 21-12
- Tanisha Crasto/Ashwini Ponnappa defeated Yeung Nga Ting/Yeung Pui Lam 21-10, 21-14
- Ashmita Chaliha defeated Yeung Sum Yee 21-12, 21-13
Repurposed article originally published in the Times of India
