The four-time Asian Champion Joshna Chinappa has secured her seventh consecutive spot in the Asian Games.
On June 14, after winning against Unnati Tripathi at the Games Selection trials at ISTA Academy, Joshna qualified for the upcoming Asian Games. This will be her seventh consecutive qualification. Her road to qualification wasn’t easy as she was placed in a group of talented youngsters. Akanksha Salunke, Rathika Seelan, Unnati Tripathi, and Pooja Arthi were a part of her group.
The 39-year-old admitted that the format was challenging as they had to play two matches a day. “It was hard because I don’t play two matches a day ever. It’s always one match a day. I also found my draw pretty tough. Rathika, Pooja and the others are girls I train with here. I wanted to win all my matches and am happy that I did,” she said on Sunday.
For her, it’s always special to represent India no matter how many times she does it. “It’s always special to play for India. It’s such a great feeling. I feel very blessed and it’s a great opportunity for me,” Joshna said.
Joshna wishes to compete in the mixed doubles at the Asian Games. She also stated that India will field a strong women’s squad, “We have a strong team this time with Anahat Singh, Tanvi Khanna and myself. The number four player will also be equally strong. I hope that I can contribute.”
