Guwahati, Oct 9 (PTI) — In a thrilling encounter, India secured a historic victory against Korea to advance to the semifinals of the World Junior Mixed Team Badminton Championships, ensuring their first-ever mixed-team medal at this prestigious event..
The match was a marathon, lasting almost three hours, and India emerged victorious with scores of 44-45, 45-30, 45-33.. This achievement guarantees India at least a bronze medal, marking a significant milestone in the history of Indian badminton at the BWF World Junior Championships..
In the semifinals, India will face the formidable Asian U-19 mixed team champions, Indonesia.. Indonesia booked their place in the semifinals after defeating Chinese Taipei with a series of identical 45-35 victories at the National Centre of Excellence..
India's strategy was clear from the outset, with a strong reliance on their singles players, anticipating that Korea would capitalize on their doubles expertise.. The encounter began with a setback as Bhargav Ram Arigela and Viswa Tej Gobburu lost 5-9 in the first boys' doubles against Cho Hyeong Woo and Lee Hyeong Woo..
However, the Indian girls' doubles pair of Vennala K and Reshika U narrowed the deficit by winning a close 10-9 match against Cheon Hye In and Moon In Seo.. Rounak Chouhan further bridged the gap with an 11-9 win over Choi Ah Seung..
Despite this momentum, a 4-9 loss in mixed doubles for C Lalramsanga and Aanya Bisht against Lee and Cheon put pressure on Unnati Hooda to perform.. Unnati rose to the occasion, initially taking a 3-0 lead before her opponent Kim Han Bi drew level at 6-6.. As the tension heightened, Unnati showcased her resilience, executing long rallies to win five consecutive points, pushing India to 44-44.. However, a netted serve at set point was a moment of despair for her..
Adjustments were made as Lalramsanga joined Bhargav in the boys' doubles, replacing Gobburu, with Vishakha Toppo stepping in for Bisht.. The changes paid off, as they secured a 9-7 win, propelling India into a six-point advantage.. With this lead, Unnati completed the set comfortably..
The final set began with another strong performance from Lalramsanga and Bhargav, securing a 9-4 lead.. Although Vennala and Reshika experienced fatigue, allowing Cheon and Moon to edge ahead, Chouhan delivered a critical 11-4 victory over Choi, solidifying India's five-point lead.. This advantage was further extended by Lalramsanga and Bisht, and Unnati sealed India's triumph with a commanding 9-4 win over Kim, sparking jubilant celebrations..
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