New Delhi [India], December 10 (ANI): The Indian ladies’s handball crew got here sixth on the Asian Women’s Handball Championship (AWHC) 2024 in New Delhi, matching their highest-ever end within the competitors, a press launch by the Asian Handball Federation said.
Later within the day, Japan surprised reigning and document champions South Korea in a gripping finale, overturning a 12-9 deficit from half-time right into a 25-24 win. Japan claimed their second title, breaking South Korea’s streak of seven straight championship wins.
Team India gave a tricky and spirited struggle to heavyweights and ten-time silver medalists China within the fifth/sixth place playoff, pushing them to the very finish in a 41-30 reverse.
India started their bout with China in excessive spirits, resulting in a combative opening during which each groups tussled for zonal domination. As the sport progressed, China, utilizing their appreciable expertise at this degree, opened up a small hole between themselves and the hosts, earlier than racing away with the win.
Regardless, Team India’s Menika remained upbeat about her aspect’s efficiency throughout the match.
“This was the first time India has hosted the event. Our experience playing in front of our fans was very good. But, our target was a medal this time and in terms of those expectations, we fell short. We’ll learn from our mistakes and we’re looking forward to the next opportunity,” stated Menika, certainly one of India’s shining stars on the match as quoted from a press launch.
Throughout the match, a gritty India aspect confirmed loads of positives in each the attacking and the defending departments, led by standout performances from teenager Bhawana Sharma and skilled goalkeeper Nina Shil. Looking forward, Menika noticed loads of positives to come back in Indian handball, chief amongst them the upcoming WHL.
“WHL is a huge opportunity for us, especially for women. Last year, we were watching the men’s league from the sidelines, hoping for a similar women’s league-an equal platform. As such, in my opinion, and the opinion of those around me in the Indian team, this is a massive opportunity that we would like to take advantage of fully,” Menika added.
Earlier within the day, Kazakhstan secured their second-ever bronze medal within the match, following their 28-22 overcome Iran within the third-place playoff.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong-CHN confirmed a seventh-place end forward of Singapore, beating the latter 33-18. Japan, South Korea, Kazakhstan, and Iran certified for the IHF World Women’s Handball Championship 2025 in Germany and the Netherlands. (ANI)