India went down 1-2 against New Zealand despite a commendable effort from Dipika Pallikal to be out of race for a quarterfinal spot in the World Women's Team Squash Championship here today.
Dipika had given the Indian camp moments a great start when she blasted out Megan Craig in straight games in the opening match. But the joy was shortlived as Joshna Chinappa could not reproduce the magic that had helped her beat Joelle King when the last the two met in a tournament in Malaysia last year.
Joelle never allowed the Indian to settle and in quick time reeled away two games.
Making a late start and showing her wonted touch, Joshna controlled the pace and that helped her gain some ground with the third game. The tussle spilled over the next game with points going neck and neck. However at the end stage, two crucial errors cost the Indian dearly as Joelle squeezed out the win and the match with it.
The tie on 1-1, the deciding match was on the young shoulder of Sunayna Kuruvilla against a tough and experienced Amanda Landers Murphy. Inexperience was a big hurdle for Sunayna, and even though she played her hearts out the win proved elusive as New Zealand sealed off the tie.
With two defeats in a Pool of four teams, India will now play the 9-17 placings matches. On the last occasion, India had finished 14th.
The results:
New Zealand bt India 2-1 (Megan Craig lost to Dipika Pallikal 6-11, 7-11, 5-11; Joelle King bt Joshna Chinappa 11-5, 11-3, 5-11, 13-11; Amanda Landers Murphy bt Sunayna Kuruvilla 11-9, 11-8,11-7).
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
