The Asian Games in Hangzhou witnessed an extraordinary display of skill and determination as ace Indian paddler Manika Batra made her mark in the women’s table tennis competition. In this article, we’ll delve into the thrilling moments of her journey to the quarterfinals and explore the performance of other Indian players in the tournament.
Manika Batra’s Triumph
Manika Batra faced off against Thailand’s Suthasini Sawettabut in a gripping round of 16 match-up. The contest was nothing short of exhilarating, with Batra ultimately emerging victorious with a scoreline of 4-2 (11-7, 6-11, 12-10, 11-13, 12-10, 11-6). The first four sets were closely fought, leveling the score at 2-2. However, Batra showcased her exceptional skills and mental fortitude by winning the next two sets, securing her spot in the quarterfinals.
According to Olympics.com, this historic victory makes Manika Batra the first-ever Indian singles player to reach the quarterfinals in table tennis at the Asian Games. Her next challenge on the path to glory is Wang Yidi, and a win here will guarantee her a medal.
Men’s Competition Highlights
In the men’s competition, Indian players had mixed results in the round of 16 matches. Veteran duo Achanta Sharath Kamal and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran faced a formidable challenge in the form of Fan Zhendong and Wang Chuqin from China. Unfortunately, they couldn’t secure a win and lost 0-3 (5-11, 4-11, 7-11).
On the other hand, the duo of Manush Utpalbhai Shah and Manav Vikash Thakkar displayed exceptional resilience and teamwork. They managed to secure a hard-fought victory with a score of 3-2 (3-11, 11-9, 11-6, 5-11, 11-8) against Singapore’s Yew En Koen Pang and Izaac Quek Yong. Their next challenge in the quarterfinals will be against top seeds Woojin Jang and Jonghoon Lim.
Women’s Doubles and Men’s Singles
The excitement continues as Sreeja Akula-Diya Chitale and Suthirtha Mukherjee-Ayhika Mukherjee gear up for their respective round of 16 women’s doubles matches. Meanwhile, Sathiyan and Achanta will also take the stage in their round of 16 matches in the men’s singles competition, adding to the anticipation and fervor of the event.
The Indian Table Tennis Squad
The Indian table tennis squad, led by Sharat Kamal and Manika Batra, commenced their Hangzhou campaign on September 22. The table tennis competitions are set to conclude on October 2, promising more breathtaking action and memorable moments.
| Men’s Team | Women’s Team | Men’s Singles | Women Singles | Men’s Doubles |
| Sharath Kamal G Sathiyan Harmeet Desai Manav Thakkar Manush Shah | Manika Batra Sreeja Akula Sutirtha Murkherjee Ayhika Mukherjee Diya Chitale | Sharath Kamal Sathiyan Gnanasekaran | Manika Batra Sreeja Akula | Sharath Kamal/Sathiyan Gnanasekaran Manav Thakkar/Manush Shah |
| Game Name | Player’s Name |
| Women’s Doubles | Sutirtha Mukherjee/Ayhika Mukherjee Sreeja Akula/Diya Chitale |
| Mixed Doubles | Manika Batra/Sathiyan Gnanasekaran Sreeja Akula/Harmeet Desai |
| Men’s Reserves | SFR Snehit Sanil Shetty |
| Women’s Reserves | Archana Kamath Reeth Rishya |
Conclusion
The Asian Games in Hangzhou have been a testament to the skill and dedication of Indian table tennis players. Manika Batra’s historic journey to the quarterfinals has been a highlight of the tournament, and Indian fans eagerly await her next match. With a strong contingent in both men’s and women’s categories, India’s prospects in table tennis look promising.
For more updates and live action, don’t forget to tune in to the Asian Games. Let’s cheer for our athletes as they strive for glory on the international stage!
FAQs
How significant is Manika Batra’s achievement in the Asian Games?
Manika Batra’s achievement in reaching the quarterfinals is historic, as she is the first Indian singles player to do so in table tennis at the Asian Games. It’s a remarkable feat and a matter of great pride for India.
Who will Manika Batra face in the next round?
Manika Batra’s next opponent in the quarterfinals is Wang Yidi, and a win here will guarantee her a medal.
How did the Indian men’s team perform in the round of 16?
The Indian men’s team had mixed results in the round of 16. Achanta Sharath Kamal and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran faced a tough challenge and couldn’t secure a win, while Manush Utpalbhai Shah and Manav Vikash Thakkar won a thrilling match to advance to the quarterfinals.
When will the table tennis competitions at the Asian Games conclude?
The table tennis competitions at the Asian Games are scheduled to conclude on October 2, 2023.
Who are the top seeds in the men’s doubles competition?
The top seeds in the men’s doubles competition are Woojin Jang and Jonghoon Lim, and they will be the next opponents for Manush Shah and Manav Vikash Thakkar in the quarterfinals.