On the 9th day of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, Indian athletes achieved remarkable success, boosting India’s total medal count to an impressive 60. The highlight of the day was the extraordinary achievement of the Mukherjee duo in the table tennis women’s doubles, making history for India at the Asian Games.
Table Tennis Triumph: Mukherjee Duo’s Shining Moment
In an intense semi-final encounter, India’s Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee displayed exceptional skill and determination against a formidable North Korean duo, Suyong Cha and Sugyong Pak. The semi-final clash was closely contested, ultimately resulting in a historic bronze medal for the Mukherjee duo. This marked a significant milestone as India secured its first-ever women’s doubles medal and the third overall in table tennis at the Asian Games.
Image Source: The Bridge
A Fierce Battle:
The semi-final match was a gripping showdown where each game swung back and forth. The Mukherjee pair relied on their defensive prowess to claim the first game 11-7. However, the North Korean duo made a strong comeback, winning the second game 11-8. The contest remained evenly poised as both teams exchanged victories, leading to a 2-2 deadlock.
In the fifth game, Suyong Cha and Sugyong Pak took an early lead, but Sutirtha and Ayhika showed resilience by not allowing their opponents to take control. The lead fluctuated, but late errors cost the Indian duo the game, giving DPR Korea a 3-2 advantage in the match.
A Spectacular Comeback:
Facing elimination, Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee mounted a stunning comeback in the sixth game. They adopted an aggressive combination style, racing to a 6-1 lead and gaining crucial momentum. They secured the game 11-5, setting the stage for an exciting decider.
Heartbreaking Conclusion:
In the final game, the Indian pair faced a 6-1 deficit in under three minutes. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t recover, and Suyong Cha and Sugyong Pak capitalized on unforced errors, winning the game 11-2 to secure a spot in the final. However, this hard-earned bronze medal was a testament to the Mukherjee duo’s determination and resilience.
Historical Significance:
This women’s doubles bronze medal not only represents a historic moment for Indian table tennis but also reflects the sport’s growth in the country. The Mukherjee duo’s achievement is the result of years of hard work, training, and dedication, setting a new benchmark for women’s table tennis in India.
Image Source: Hindustan Times
Roller Skating Glory: Adding to the Medal Tally
In addition to table tennis, India’s roller skating contingent also made their mark on Day 9, securing two bronze medals. The women’s team, comprising Sanjana Bhatuka, Karthika Jagadeeswaran, Heeral Sadhu, and Aaratju Kastury, claimed a third-place finish in the women’s speed skating 3000m relay team event. Subsequently, the men’s roller skating team, consisting of Aryanpal Singh Ghuman, Anandkumar Velkumar, Siddhant Kamble, and Vikram Ingale, replicated the feat by securing another bronze in the 3000m relay final.
Image Source: Sportstar- The Hindu
Image Source: Deccan Herald
Athletics Excellence:
India’s excellence extended to the athletics track, with Parul Chaudhary and Priti Lamba securing silver and bronze medals in the women’s 3000m steeplechase final. Their commendable performances contributed to India’s growing medal count.
Image Source: Amar Ujala
Other Notable Achievements:
In archery, India triumphed over Hong Kong, China, advancing to the quarterfinals of the men’s recurve team event and the women’s recurve team event, showcasing their precision sports prowess.
The Indian men’s hockey team continued their dominant streak with a resounding 12-0 victory over Bangladesh, securing a semifinal berth.
Image Source: Outlook India
Asian Games Medal Tally:
China dominates with 263 medals, including 143 golds. Japan follows with 121 medals, while Korea is third with 133 medals. India holds fourth place with 60 medals, including 13 golds, highlighting their growing presence in Asian sports. The race for the top spot in the medal tally intensifies as the competition unfolds.
