Saurav Ghosal, Joshna Chinappa emerge national squash champions

Reigning champions Saurav Ghosal and Joshna Chinappa successfully defended their singles titles in the men's and women's section respectively in the 61st National Squash Championship which concluded here Friday.

Top seed Ghosal lived up to his billing and posted a facile 11-2 11-1 11-7 victory over Mahesh Mangaonkar to win his record ninth national title and winner's purse of Rs one lakh.

Chinappa too had it easy against youngster Aprarajita Balmurukan in the women's section and won 11-8 11-9 11-6.

The title clash between Ghosal and Mahesh began with a long rally which raised the hopes that the youngster would challenge the might of the World No 20.

But Ghosal faced little resistance to wrap the issue in just about half an hour.

"It was not that easy. The scores suggest that it was a one-sided affair but Mahesh played quite well and shoed his potential. I was trying out few things but he was also good," said Ghosal.

Chennai-girl Chinappa disposed off the challenge of Aparajita in just 30 minutes to win her 12th national crown. It was Aparajita who took the initial lead in the first two games but Chinappa's vast experience came in handy for her.

"I was not complacent. I knew that with Deepika not here I would play against youngsters. Still, I don't take things for granted. The girls need more of exposure to come good at higher levels," said Chinappa after her win.

Results:

Mens: Final Saurav Ghosal (1) def Mahesh Mangaonkar 11-2 11-1 11-7.

3/4 Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu (2) def Ravi Dixit (3/4) 12-10 11-5 11-5.

Womens: Final Joshana Chinappa (1) def Aparajitha Balamurukan (2) 11-8 11-9 11-6.

3/4 Sachika Ingale (3/4) def Janet Vidhi (3/4) 11-8 11-6 11-2.