Indian duo defeats China’s reigning world champions in straight games

AICHI–NAGOYA, October 23: India’s Thulasimathi Murugesan and Manasi Girishchandra Joshi secured the gold medal in the women’s doubles SL3–SU5 badminton event at the 2026 Asian Para Games. The Indian duo defeated China’s Yang Qiuxia and Xiao Zuxian 21–16, 21–13 in straight games, wrapping up the contest in 28 minutes.

The Indian pair displayed excellent coordination and an assured performance throughout the match to register a 2–0 victory. They claimed the opening game 21–16 before sealing the second 21–13 to secure the top podium finish.

The victory marked a significant achievement for the Indian duo, who had previously won a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games. Their latest triumph represents an important milestone in their international para-badminton careers.

The SL3–SU5 doubles category features athletes from two classifications: SL3, which includes standing players with lower-limb impairments, and SU5, which comprises standing players with upper-limb impairments.

## Himanshu Nandal Wins Swimming Bronze, Completes Campaign with Three Medals

Meanwhile, Indian para-swimmer Himanshu Nandal won the bronze medal in the men’s 100-metre freestyle S11 event at the 2026 Asian Para Games on Friday. He finished third in the final with a time of one minute and 5.90 seconds.

With this achievement, Nandal concluded his campaign at the continental competition with three bronze medals, adding to India’s medal tally in para-swimming.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar