Joshna wins historic Asian title; Ghosal falters

Chennai, April 30 

Joshna Chinappa scripted history by becoming the first Indian to clinch the Asian squash title with a thrilling win over compatriot Dipika Pallikal Karthik in the women's final here today. In the men's final, Saurav Ghosal went down fighting against top seed Max Lee to finish second best.

In a clash between the compatriots, who train together at the Indian Squash Academy here, Joshna held off a fighting Dipika 13-15 12-10 11-13 11-4 11-4 to win her biggest title. The first game saw the two go toe-to-toe, mixing aggression with strong defence. Dipika squeezed out the opening game as her rival faltered at the end.

The second game was again a long one and went to the extra points as neither gave away an inch. However, in a reversal of fortunes, Joshna saved a game point to level the match. The third game, too, was a close affair as the two fought fiercely to surge ahead. It was even-stevens as both the players had to work hard to win every point. Dipika saved two game points to take a crucial lead.

Joshna, however, wasn't shaken after falling behind and came out all guns blazing to run away with the fourth game as Dipika made too many errors.

At the start of the decider, Dipika suffered a mild injury scare as she slipped and fell on the court. Joshna, on the other hand, kept her cool and stormed to a big lead. Dipika fought back but only briefly as the world No.14 Joshna sealed a memorable triumph in front of a cheering crowd.

Earlier, Ghosal went down fighting in the final against top seed Max Lee of Hong Kong, ranked 17 in the world, to finish runners-up. 

Ghosal faded away after a bright start —  he won the first game but couldn’t sustain the momentum and went down 11-5 4-11 8-11 7-11 in 61 minutes. — PTI