India has won its first medal at the BRICS Games, which were held in Kazan, Russia. The women's table tennis team, consisting of Poymantee Baisya, Moumita Dutta, and Yashini Sivasankar, clinched a bronze medal, marking India's first medal at the event.
Semi-Final Performance Against China
The journey to the bronze medal was marked by a challenging semi-final match against the formidable Chinese team. Yashini Sivasankar delivered a stellar performance in the first game, winning 11-7, 4-11, 11-8, 7-11, and 11-2. Despite this initial victory, the Chinese team rallied and won the remaining three matches, thus advancing to the final and relegating India to the bronze medal match.
Match Highlights
- First Game: Yashini Sivasankar (India) vs. China: 11-7, 4-11, 11-8, 7-11, 11-2
- Final Outcome: China won 3-1, and India secured the bronze medal
Celebrations and Acknowledgments
The accomplishment was met with widespread acclaim and congratulations from various quarters. Newly-appointed Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the women's table tennis team, acknowledging their hard work and dedication.
Heartiest congratulations to Women's #TableTennis team for winning the Bronze Medal 🥉 at #BRICS Game. This is our first medal at the event.
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) June 15, 2024
You have made the nation proud! I wish you continued success and glory in all your future endeavors. pic.twitter.com/eO8eKdi3XH
"Heartiest congratulations to the women's #TableTennis team for winning the bronze medal at the #BRICS Games. This is our first medal at the event. You have made the nation proud! I wish you continued success and glory in all your future endeavours," he posted on his official X handle.
Performance of the Men's Table Tennis Team
While the women’s team celebrated their bronze medal victory, the Indian men's table tennis team also showcased a strong effort. The team, consisting of Anirban Ghosh, Jeet Chandra, and Snehit Suravajjula, finished fifth in the tournament. They achieved a 3-1 victory over Bahrain in their classification match, showcasing their competitive spirit and strength.
The BRICS Games have provided an opportunity for Indian athletes to display their skill sets on an international stage. The achievements of India's women's and men's table tennis teams in Kazan reflect the nation's developing sporting power and the potential for future success in international competition.