India's squash team added another medal to their tally as men's singles ace Saurav Ghosal clinched a silver medal. He faced defeat in the men's singles final against Malaysia's Wain Yow, with scores of 11-9, 9-11, 5-11, 7-11, concluding his journey in the Asian Games 2023 with a silver medal.
In a match marked by prolonged rallies, Yow showcased superior front court skills to emerge victorious.
Ghosal began the match strong, rallying from behind to win the initial game. However, the Malaysian player used extended rallies to his advantage, putting Ghosal on the defensive and making a comeback.
This silver medal in Hangzhou adds to Ghosal's impressive tally at the Asian Games. He previously secured bronze in 2006, 2010, and 2018, and won a silver in 2014 in Incheon.
Ghosal initiated his journey with a straightforward win against Kuwait's Ammar Al Tamimi in the pre-quarterfinals. He further showcased his expertise by besting Japan's Ryunosuke Tsukue 3-0 (11-5, 12-10, 11-3) in the men's singles quarter-finals, ensuring his progression to the semi-finals and guaranteeing India a medal at the Hangzhou Games.
His standout performance was evident when he overpowered Hong Kong's Henry Leung in the men's singles semi-final. With a dominant scoreline of 11-2, 11-1, 11-6, Ghosal confidently advanced to the final, ensuring a minimum of a silver medal in his sixth outing at the Asian Games.
Throughout the tournament, Ghosal's strategic brilliance and athletic strength were on full display. His precise drop shots and strategically executed boasts often left his rivals on the back foot. Even when pitted against younger challengers, Ghosal's seasoned expertise was unmistakable, marking him as a standout player.
Earlier, seasoned players Dipika Pallikal and Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu faced tense moments but ultimately secured the mixed doubles gold, while Saurav Ghosal took home a singles silver on Thursday. This marked the most successful outing for Indian squash players at the Asian Games to date.
In a nail-biting 35-minute final, Dipika and Harinder narrowly defeated the Malaysian pair of Aifa Binti Azman and Mohammad Syafiq Bin Mohd Kamal with scores of 11-10, 11-10. This victory brought India its second squash gold medal in the ongoing competition.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK
Asian Games 2023: Indian men's Kabaddi Team trounce Japan to set up semifinal showdown against Pakistan
Australian all-rounder doubtful for their World Cup opener against India, coach provides major update
