Syed Modi International 2023: Priyanshu Rajawat sails into semis; Ashwini-Tanisha register upset win

Priyanshu is the only remaining Indian singles player in the tournament.

India’s upcoming star Priyanshu Rajawat continued his prime form and progressed to the semifinals in men’s singles at Syed Modi International 2023. He defeated the Indonesian junior world champion Alwi Farhan in straight games (21-15, 21-16) at Babu Banarasi Das Indoor Stadium in Lucknow. In women’s doubles, Ashwini Ponnappa-Tanisha Crasto registered an upset win over fourth seeds Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand (21-19, 21-8).

The day began on a positive note for the hosts with Priyanshu registering a comfortable victory. He managed to bring in his ‘A’ game, applying both attacking and defensive prowess. At 19-15 in the second game, Priyanshu’s deft touch and inch perfect placement near the net took the Indonesian by surprise. Moreover, the cross-hand smashes were also executed to perfection.

After winning the opening game, Priyanshu, WR-31, applied the accelerator and surged ahead to a five-point lead at the start of the second game. Alwi Farhan soon made a comeback by winning seven out of the next nine points. The Indian now had a one-point deficit at the mid-way break. From here, the Indian international showed composure and played to merit. Overall, he showcased good skills and got the much-needed support from his home fans.

In the following encounter, Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto defeated the higher-seeded compatriots in just over 30 minutes. After an evenly poised opening game, Treesa and Gayatri lost plot and conceded the match with ease.

Ashwini and Tanisha scored 12 straight points to start the second game. Tresa-Gayatri couldn’t make a comeback and ended their season on a disappointing note.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram