Asian Games 2023: Indian men's squash team beat Pakistan 2-1 to win gold
Xtra Time Web Desk: In a thrilling showdown at the Asian Games 2023, Abhay Singh emerged as the hero for India's men's team squash, orchestrating a remarkable comeback to secure the coveted gold medal. The final clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Saturday, September 30, was nothing short of a nail-biter.
India initially faced adversity when Nasir Iqbal convincingly outplayed Mahesh Mangaonkar in the first match, winning 11-8, 11-3, 11-2. However, Saurav Ghosal provided a glimmer of hope by dominating Muhammed Asim Khan 11-5, 11-1, 11-3, levelling the contest at 1-1.
The pivotal moment came when Abhay Singh took the stage against Pakistan's Noor Zaman. Abhay took the first game 11-7, but Noor fought back fiercely, winning the next two. With Pakistan on the brink of victory, Abhay displayed incredible determination, clinching the fourth game 11-9.
The fifth and final game was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by both players demonstrating remarkable resilience and intensity. Noor appeared poised to seal the victory, but Abhay fought back valiantly, levelling the game at 10-10 before ultimately capturing the gold medal with a heart-stopping 12-10 victory.
Abhay Singh's heroics in the deciding match secured India's memorable comeback win, etching his name into Asian Games history and delivering the much-celebrated gold medal to his nation. The intensity and drama of this squash final will be remembered for years to come.
