New Delhi: Achanta Sharath Kamal’s charge into the pre-quarterfinals was halted with China’s Lin Gaoyuan beating him 11-13, 11-9, 11-7, 8-11, 11-8, 11-4 in a late round of 32 matches late on Friday.
Sharath warded off early threats and won the first set on his second game point to give himself a glimpse of hope. But Lin, ranked 40 in the world and seeded 33, had other ideas as he surged into a 2-1 lead before dropping a second game as Sharat leveled scores.
However, the Chinese steadied his game and did not allow the 54th-ranked Indian any further liberties, winning the next two games.
Sharath admitted that the result was disappointing. “When I made it 2-all, I thought I had a chance. But some mistakes on my part proved costly. Lin didn’t let me play my game, he was too good,” said the Indian.
