Indian table tennis star Manika Batra showcased her exceptional talent and composure under pressure, guiding the women’s team to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Romania, thereby securing a spot in the quarter-finals of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Batra’s standout performance, featuring two pivotal wins, was crucial in overcoming the determined Romanian side.
The competition started on a positive note for Bharat as Archana Kamath and Sreeja Akula teamed up against Romania’s Adina Diaconu and Elizabeta Samara. The Indian duo exhibited excellent teamwork, winning in straight sets with scores of 11-9, 12-10, 11-7, giving Bharat an early 1-0 lead.
Next, Manika Batra faced Romania’s Bernadette Szocs. Batra dominated the match, winning decisively with scores of 11-5, 11-7, 11-7, extending Bharat’s lead to 2-0 and putting the team in a strong position.
However, the tie became intense as Sreeja Akula battled Samara in a closely fought five-game match. Despite her best efforts, Akula narrowly lost with scores of 8-11, 11-4, 7-11, 11-6, 11-8, allowing Romania to stay in the contest and narrow Bharat’s lead to 2-1.
Romania continued their comeback with Szocs defeating Kamath 11-5, 8-11, 11-7, 11-9, leveling the score at 2-2 and setting up a decisive final match.
In the crucial fifth match, Manika Batra rose to the occasion, defeating Adina Diaconu with scores of 11-5, 11-9, 11-9, sealing the tie for Bharat. This victory propelled Bharat into the quarter-finals, where they will face either the USA or Germany.
The Indian team’s resilience and skill were key factors in their advancement, demonstrating their potential for further success in the tournament.
