Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
India’s women’s team responded strongly after their opening loss, registering a commanding win over Ukraine in their second Group A tie at the Uber Cup Finals on Saturday. The victory keeps India’s campaign alive ahead of a crucial final group-stage clash.
After going down 2-3 to hosts Denmark in their opener, India needed a solid performance to stay in contention. They delivered just that, sealing the tie with victories in all three singles matches to take an unassailable 3-0 lead.
advertisement
INDIA DOMINATE SINGLES TO SEAL TIE
The charge was led by 18-year-old Unnati Hooda, who set the tone with a straight-games win over Polina Buhrova. Hooda edged a tight contest 21-19, 22-20 in 46 minutes, showing composure in key moments.
Tanvi Sharma then had to dig deep in the second singles. After taking the opening game comfortably, she was pushed to a decider by Yevheniia Kantemyr. However, Sharma regained control in the third game to seal a 21-12, 17-21, 21-10 victory in a 49-minute battle.
Devika Sihag wrapped up the tie in the third singles, overcoming Mariia Stoliarenko in straight games. She clinched a hard-fought first game before closing out the match 23-21, 21-13 in 38 minutes.
With the tie already decided, the remaining two doubles matches became inconsequential.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR INDIA
The win puts India back in the mix after a disappointing start to their campaign. Ukraine, who had also lost their opening tie 0-5 to China, are now virtually out of contention for a quarterfinal spot.
With only the top two teams from each group progressing, India’s qualification will now hinge on their final group-stage encounter.
They face a tough test against China on Monday, a match that is likely to decide their place in the knockout rounds.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
