At the Asian Table Tennis Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan, India’s women’s table tennis team achieved a historic bronze medal, their first-ever podium result in the women’s team division. China lost 0-3 to Hong Kong in the other semifinal, while India made it to the semifinals but was defeated 1-3 by Japan. Bronze medals are given to both losing semifinalists in accordance with the tournament regulations.
In a thrilling semifinal match, Ayhika Mukherjee fell short, finishing 2-3 against Miwa Harimoto of Japan. But Manika Batra pulled off a stunning comeback for India, defeating Satsuki Odo 3-0. Then, the tie changed with Sutirtha Mukherjee losing versus Mima Ito 0-3. Japan’s victory was cemented when Harimoto defeated Manika Batra 3-1.
India’s gold adventure started in the quarterfinals with a stunning 3-2 victory over South Korea, which verified their historic medal.
India defeated Kazakhstan 3-1 to get to the semifinals in the men’s category as well. India got off to a great start with Manav Thakkar, who defeated Kirill Gerassimenko in straight sets. The men’s squad will face the victor of Hong Kong vs Chinese Taipei in the quarterfinals as their semifinal opponent.
