India’s top-ranked junior Anaka Alankamony overcame a first-match deficit to beat Ho Ka Po of Hong Kong and ensured her progress to the quarterfinals of the World Junior Squash Championship in Doha.
Ka Po had Anaka scurrying all around the court in the first game winning it 11-8. Thereon, Anaka was more composed and comprehensively defeated her opponent with her basic and dogged drives. She came back to clinch the match 8-11, 11-5, 11-6, 11-6.
However, compatriot Aparajitha Balamurukan succumbed to better-ranked Mariam Ibrahim Metwally in straight games. The Egyptian had no qualms whatsoever in ousting Aparajitha 11-4, 11-4 and 11-2.
Later, Mahesh Mangaonkar also qualified to the last eight as his opponent Abdulla Al-Tamimi was forced to retire in the third game — he had dripped blood on court and hence the court was deemed unplayable — after both had traded a game apiece. After losing the opening game 10-12, Mahesh riposted winning the second 11-2. The third-game was evenly poised at 4-4 before the local-boy gave up.
Both Mahesh and Anaka are up against higher ranked Egyptians. Mahesh combats second-seed Mohamed Abouelghar while Anaka battle 3/4 seed Yathreb Adel.
RESULTS: Junior women pre-quarterfinal: Anaka Alankamony (IND) bt Ho Ka Po 8-11, 11-5, 11-6, 11-6 , [9/16] Aparajitha Balamurukan (IND) lost to Mariam Ibrahim Metwally (EGY) 4-11, 4-11, 2-11.
Junior men (pre-quarterfinal): [5/8] Mahesh Mangaonkar (IND) bt Abdullah Mohd Al Tamimi (QAT) 10-12, 11-3, 4-4 (ret).