Indian eves clinch silver in Asian Squash final

India’s performance was better than their bronze-medal finish in the earlier edition of the championship. Just like the league stage, India again lost to the eventual champions in the summit clash.

Sachika lost in straight games 7-11 6-11 10-12 to Sivasangari Subramaniam in the first match.

India’s top player Joshna Chinappa gave a tought fight to Delia Arnold, who finally prevailed with 9-11, 13-11, 11-8, 11-9 victory.

Joshna powered her way for the first game. But the cool Malaysian, took her time, avoided making mistakes and forced the rallies to trip Joshna even though points for a long time went neck and neck.

Delia found her way to grab the second game and from there keeping a low pace and concentrating more on returns, kept testing Joshna’s patience to good purpose.

The Indian fell to the bait and so ended a valiant effort. Dipika Pallikal was not required to play the third match which could have been decisive had Joshna won her encounter.

 Overall, national coach Cyrus Poncha was pleased with the  performance.