PBG Pune Jaguars Defeat U Mumba in Historic UTT Match

Ahmedabad, India – In a thrilling match of the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) league, PBG Pune Jaguars defeated U Mumba 9-6 on Sunday, marking their first victory against the Mumbai team. The match took place at the EKA Arena and was attended by approximately 200 spectators.

The newly branded franchise, formerly known as Puneri Paltan, had previously lost to U Mumba in the last two seasons. This victory was a significant turn in their fortunes. French player Lilian Bardet dominated against Spaniard Alvaro Robles, winning the first two games 11-1 and 11-4 before losing the third 8-11.

World No. 12 Bernadette Szocs faced a tough challenge from UTT debutant Dina Meshref of Egypt. Meshref, utilizing her skilled forehand, held three match points in the second game but Szocs pulled off a surprise with a tomahawk serve, ensuring she won the match 2-1.

In mixed doubles, the pair of Anirban Ghosh and Meshref defeated Szocs and Akash Pal 2-1. Ghosh displayed a strong performance against Pal, managing to level the scores after facing a game point deficit. This match ended with a nail-biting finish as Ghosh continued to push for victory.

The final singles match of the day featured Reeth Rishya against Swastika Ghosh. Rishya, who has nine years more experience than her opponent, swept to a convincing 3-0 win.

Key match results include Bardet defeating Robles 2-1, Szocs overcoming Meshref 2-1, Ghosh and Meshref winning the mixed doubles, and Rishya claiming victory over Ghosh. The success of the PBG Pune Jaguars in this match sets a hopeful tone for the rest of the season, as they aim to build on this historic win.