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India's journey in the men's table tennis team event at the Paris Olympics came to an abrupt end on Tuesday, August 6. The Indian team, comprising Achanta Sharath Kamal, Manav Thakkar, and Harmeet Desai, faced a formidable challenge against top-seeded China in the Round of 16.
India's Table Tennis Campaign Ends Early
Despite their best efforts, the Indian trio was unable to match the prowess of their Chinese opponents, resulting in a clean 0-3 defeat. The match began on a disastrous note for India as the doubles pair of Manav Thakkar and Harmeet Desai were comprehensively outplayed by Ma Long and Wang Chuqin. The Chinese duo dominated proceedings, securing a straightforward 3-0 victory and putting India in a precarious position from the outset.
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Veteran Sharath Kamal goes down fighting
Achanta Sharath Kamal provided a glimmer of hope for India as he took on Fan Zhendong. The Indian veteran showcased his experience by clinching the first game, giving the Indian camp a much-needed boost. However, Zhendong, a formidable force in table tennis, gradually asserted his dominance. Sharath Kamal fought valiantly but eventually succumbed to the Chinese player's relentless attack, losing the match 1-4. With this defeat, India found themselves in a 0-2 hole against China.
Manav Thakkar's valiant fight
With India trailing 0-2, the onus was on Manav Thakkar to salvage something for his team. Facing Wang Chuqin, Thakkar fought valiantly, forcing the Chinese player to work hard. Despite a strong start, Thakkar was unable to maintain the momentum as Wang gradually took control of the match.
The third game saw Thakkar surge ahead, holding a comfortable lead. However, Wang's resilience proved too much as he clawed his way back into the game, eventually securing the victory. With Thakkar's defeat, India's challenge came to an end, as they suffered a 0-3 whitewash against China.
India's Women's Table Tennis Team Advances
The Indian women's table tennis team, led by Manika Batra, Sreeja Akula, and Archana Kamath, secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the Paris 2024 Olympics on Monday. The team pulled off a thrilling 3-2 victory over fourth-seeded Romania in the round of 16. Batra was the star of the match, winning both her singles contests, while Kamath and Akula combined to clinch the doubles match.
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