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As Dinesh Karthik prepared for the World Cup opener between England and New Zealand in his role as an expert, he eagerly sought updates on star squash player, and his wife, Dipika Pallikal's mixed doubles squash Gold medal match at the Asian Games in Hangzhou. Fortunately, two of his former teammates, Rahul Tripathi and Washington Sundar, were present at the Hangzhou Olympic Centre's squash venue, rooting for the Indian contingent.
Dipika Pallikal, paired with Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu, clinched the Gold medal by defeating Alfa Azman and Mohammad Syafiq Kamal with scores of 11-10, 11-0 in the mixed doubles final. This victory marked Dipika's first Gold at the Asian Games, adding to her collection of one silver and four bronze medals. The duo showcased their dominance, securing the win in two straight sets.
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Expressing his gratitude, Dinesh Karthik tweeted, "Thanks @Sundarwashi5 @tripathirahul52 and HARSHA. Really nice of you'll to go support Dipika and Indian squash. It means a lot. Feeling envious I couldn't be there but nice of you'll to take time out from cricket to go and watch them play."
Karthik also extended his thanks to Washington Sundar for sharing a video capturing the golden moment of victory.
In the squash event's mixed doubles final, Dipika and Harinder brought home India's 20th gold and the 83rd medal overall for the country.
The match, which lasted 35 minutes, saw the Indian duo narrowly winning with scores of 11-10, 11-10. While they seemed poised for a clear victory, a brief lapse in concentration allowed the Malaysians to gain ground in the second game.
In an impressive rally, the Malaysian team scored seven consecutive points, shifting the score from 3-9 to 10-9. Nevertheless, Harinder and Dipika managed to recapture their form and seal the victory.
This tournament might be Dipika's last at this prestigious continental event. She secured two medals this time: a bronze in the women's team event and the gold in mixed doubles. Over her four Asian Games appearances, the 32-year-old has amassed a total of six medals, comprising one gold, one silver, and four bronze medals.
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