Tennis:Akshat, Sejal, reign supreme

Nagpur, Jan 17

Akshat Dakshindas and Sejal Bhutada emerged winners in their respective categories in NDHTA Home Tournament at Ram Nagar court here on Sunday.

The Under-12 final between Akshat and Daksh turned out to be an exciting. Akshat came from behind and beat Daksh Patil in a thrilling final match. He lost the first set 1-4, came back strong in the second set with tie-breaker and the score reading 4-3(7-5) and the final match, he won comfortably with the score reading 10-7. Daksh Patil won the heart of the spectators with his aggressive shot and Akshat won the honours due to his patience and perseverance.

Earlier in the semis, Akshat blanked Mehul Fulzele 8-0 whereas Daksh quelled the spirited challenge of Parth Rai 8-5. However Akshat's dream to clinch double crown shattered when in the Under-14 final he lost to Sejal Bhutada 2-4, 2-4.The match was full of baseline volleys and beautiful drop shot at the net. Both players gave their best but in the end, Sejal Bhutada proved she is the superior player and won the match and the tournament. In the semis, Sejal got rid of Parth Rai 8-1 whereas Akshat downed Daksh Patil 8-4.

The prize distribution was held immediately after the finals. NDHTA secetary Vijay Naidu gave away the trophies to the winners and runners-up. On popular demand, another tournament will be played in the month of February in two different categories, said Naidu.

Results

Under-14 semis: Sejal Bhutada beat Path Rai 8-1; Akshat Dakshindas beat Daksh Patil 8-4

Final: Sejal Bhutada beat Akshat Dakshindass 4-2, 4-2

Under-12 semis: Akshat Dakshindas beat Mehul Fulzele 8-0 ; Daksh Patil beat Parth Rai 8-5

Final: Akshat Dakshindas bt Daksh Patil 1-4, 4-3 (7-5)