Joshna Chinappa became the first Indian to clinch the Asian Squash title with a thrilling win over compatriot Dipika Pallikal Karthik in the women’s final on Sunday, reported PTI.
In the men’s final, Saurav Ghosal went down fighting against top seed Max Lee 11-5, 4- 11, 8-11, 7-11. In a clash between doubles’ partners, Chinappa beat Pallikal 13-15, 12-10, 11-13, 11-4, 11-4 in a match that lasted for 78 minutes.
The first game saw the duo battle toe-to-toe, with Pallikal winning the first game. The second game saw Chinappa getting the match back on level terms. In the third game, Pallikal saved two game points to take a crucial lead. However, Chinappa upped the ante and won two games on the trot to win the title.
Ghosal won the opening game against Lee, but the top seed made a comeback to win 11-5, 4- 11, 8-11, 7-11 in 61 minutes. However, Ghosal saved two championship points before handing the world No 17 his maiden Asian title.