Aichi-Nagoya, 28 September (H.S.): India began its women’s team squash campaign at the Asian Games with a 2-1 victory over China, while the men’s volleyball team continued its winning run with a 3-0 victory over Hong Kong.

India’s squash team bounced back from Shamina Riaz’s five-game defeat to Yin Ziyuan, with Tanvi Khanna and Joshna Chinappa securing straight-game victories to seal a 2-1 win.

Shamina fought hard against Yin before losing 11-8, 11-6, 9-11, 9-11, 14-12. Tanvi then levelled the tie by defeating Zhang Yuning 11-3, 11-5, 11-5.

Joshna subsequently secured India’s victory by defeating Liu Ziyi 12-10, 11-4, 11-6. India will next face Japan on Monday, while Iran are the other team in their pool.

Following the women’s team event, India’s men’s squash team will face China in its opening pool match. Abhay Singh, who won silver on Sunday, has been rested for the team event. Suraj Chand, Veer Chotrani and Velavan Senthilkumar will contest the three matches.

Meanwhile, the Indian men’s volleyball team secured its second consecutive victory, defeating Hong Kong 25-22, 25-19, 25-21 in straight sets. Captain Jerome Vinith led India’s challenge, while John Joseph, Ashwal Rai and Chirag Yadav also made important contributions.

India will face Qatar on Tuesday in a match that could determine the team finishing at the top of Pool C.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar