Malaysian Dominance in Chennai
Posted on 08. Mar, 2010 by Elaine in Featured Articles
Chennai Champs! Ong Beng Hee and Nicol David.
It was indeed sweet victory for Malaysian Squash as Nicol Ann David and Ong Beng Hee both clinched the championship titles last night in one of India’s busiest cities, Chennai.
It was especially sweet for our Squash Stars Ambassador and founder, as she had struggled and lost against Jenny Duncalf in their previous two meetings. So to come out victorious in this one really meant a lot to her. Here is a summary of Nicol’s journey to the finals in the gold-class Chennai Open:
First round: Dipika Pallikal (IND) (Qualifier)
Score: 11/6, 11/9, 11/5 (30 minutes)
Despite the late arrival of her squash bags from the airlines, Nicol jumped into court against India’s young and upcoming Dipika Pallikal and won it with ease. It took her only 6 minutes to take the first set away from Dipika! However, let it be known that Dipika Pallikal wins the prize for keeping the squash queen on court for the longest period in this tournament—30 minutes!
Quarters: Samantha Teran (MEX) (8)
Score: 11-9. 11-4, 12-10 (28 minutes)
In the quarters, Nicol trailed a little in the beginning before picking up speed and proceeded in the same lightning fashion by beating Squash Stars compatriot Samantha Teran of Mexico. We must say that Sam has been playing very well and it is a shame to see her exit so early in this tournament.
Semi Finals: Kasey Brown (AUS) (7)
Score: 11-2, 11-4, 11-4 (23 minutes)
After a great game with Sam, Nicol sped things up even more (we didn’t think it would be possible) by dispatching Kasey in only 23 minutes! Nicol’s efforts in the recent Australian summer with squash greats—Sarah Fitzgerald and Vicki Cardwell is definitely paying off big time.
Finals: Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (2)
Score: 11/6, 11/4, 11/6 (25 minutes)
Everyone definitely anticipated a much longer game, however Nicol who had been impatient to meet Jenny all week came out with aggressive attacking shots and kept Jenny pinned to her rhythm. It is definitely a sweet victory for the queen of squash.
Congratulations, Nicol!
Next up is the CIMB KL OPEN 2010 in Malaysia. Look forward to more updates from us at Squash Stars!
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