Guwahati, 18th February: In a stunning upset, Assam’s rising badminton star, Ashmita Chaliha, achieved a remarkable victory by defeating Japan’s world number 1 player, Nozomi Okuhara, during the Badminton Asia Team Championships on February 17. Alongside her teammate, Anmol Kharb, Chaliha led India to an unprecedented triumph, reshaping the tournament’s narrative.
Chaliha’s impressive win over former world champion Okuhara unfolded in two straight sets, with scores of 21-17, 21-14, propelling India into the lead in the tie. Kharb, a 17-year-old sensation, contributed to the glory by stunning Japan’s Natsuki with a score of 21-14, 21-18 in the final match, securing the championship for India.
The extraordinary performances of Chaliha and Kharb garnered accolades from various quarters, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma, who took to social media to extend his congratulations to the players. “An incredible achievement for the Indian Women’s Badminton Team! Congratulations to Ashmita Chaliha and Anmol Kharb for their outstanding victories against top-ranked opponents,” read Sharma’s post on X, acknowledging the historic milestone achieved by the Indian contingent.
Notably, Kharb’s stellar performance continued in the decisive fifth rubber, leading the Indian women’s team to an historic victory over Thailand with a tight 3-2 scoreline. Led by seasoned player PV Sindhu, the Indian women’s team defied expectations to clinch their first-ever major title in team championships.
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