Defending champions Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand delivered an attacking masterclass to retain their women’s doubles crown at the Syed Modi International Super 300 in Lucknow on Sunday.
The top-seeded Indian duo fought back from a game down to outwit Japan’s Kaho Osawa and Mai Tanabe 17-21, 21-13, 21-15 in a pulsating one-hour and 16-minute final.
The Indians, playing only their second event since Gayatri’s return from a five-month shoulder injury layoff, showcased resilience and sharp anticipation throughout the contest.
The final began with a breathtaking 49-shot rally, setting the tone for a high-intensity battle. Osawa and Tanabe edged ahead 6-3 and maintained a slender lead until 18-15. Despite Treesa’s smashes and Gayatri’s efforts, the Japanese pair capitalised on Indian errors to close out the opener 21-17.
Switching sides brought a momentum shift. Treesa and Gayatri surged to 9-2, powered by Treesa’s booming backcourt smashes and Gayatri’s anticipation at the net. Consequently, they dominated the second game 21-13 to force a decider.
In the third game, the Indians built a 7-4 lead before miscommunication cost them points. However, sharp net interceptions and deceptive shots restored control. Treesa’s disguised net play and Gayatri’s sharp smash gave them a six-point cushion at the interval. Although Osawa and Tanabe narrowed the deficit to 13-15, the Indians held firm.
Finally, a delicate drop from Treesa and a wide shot from the Japanese handed India six match points. They converted on the second to seal the victory and retain their crown.
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