NEW DELHI: India's squash duo of Dipika Pallikal and Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu clinched the gold medal in the mixed doubles event at the Asian Games, fending off a late challenge from their Malaysian opponents in a thrilling final.
The Indian pair secured an 11-10, 11-10 victory over Aifa Binti Azman and Mohammad Syafiq Bin Mohd Kamal after 35 minutes of intense competition.
Initially, the Indian team appeared to be on the path to a comfortable victory, but they momentarily lost focus in the second game, allowing their Malaysian rivals to make a remarkable comeback. The Malaysian duo secured seven consecutive points, erasing a 3-9 deficit to take a 10-9 lead. However, Dipika and Harinder rallied and raised their level of play to close out the match in their favor.
For Dipika Pallikal, this Asian Games victory in the mixed doubles event is likely to be her last appearance at the continental showpiece. She capped off her participation with two medals, a bronze in the women's team event and the coveted mixed doubles gold.
The 32-year-old squash star has an impressive medal haul across four editions of the Asian Games, totaling six medals. Her collection includes one gold medal, one silver medal, and four bronze medals, making her one of India's most accomplished squash players on the international stage.
Dipika Pallikal's achievements at the Asian Games have contributed significantly to India's squash success and continue to inspire future generations of squash players in the country.
(With PTI inputs)
