New Delhi: Unseeded Harmeet Desai is on a song. After surprising everyone with an unexpected run and victory over top-seed Korean Jang Woojin in the pre-quarterfinals yesterday, the Indian sent World No. 26 Peng Xiang from China packing 3-1 (11-7, 5-11, 11-7, 11-1) and reaching the medal rounds in the ongoing WTT Contender at Lagos today.
The No. 134 ranked Indian proved today that yesterday’s win over the Korean was no fluke when he took on the 20-year-old Chinese and a favourite against the Indian.
The 29-year-old Indian had the measure of the youngster and won with east his first game. Known for playing an attacking game, the Chinese fought back well in the second when the Indian paddler made several unforced errors. But soon, Harmeet hit the groove and proved a point to go 2-1 up. In the fourth game, world No. 134 gave a few lessons in service and attack to the young Chinese and made him a mere spectator to emerge on top.
“It was another fantastic win for me after I won the quarterfinals. My form is good, and I hope to continue the way in the semifinals against German Dimitrij Ovtcharov, world No. 14,” said Harmeet. “It will be a tough match, but I will try my best,” he added.
Earlier, Manav Thakkar, Archana Kamath and Reeth Rishya also put up a good show before bowing out.
–TTFI
