WTT Contender Lagos: Harmeet Desai stuns China's Peng Xiang to enter semi-finals

Lagos: Indian paddler Harmeet Desai continued his giant-killing spree at the WTT Contender by entering the semi-finals, beating China’s world No 26 Peng Xiang 3-1, in Lagos on Saturday. Desai won 11-7, 5-11, 11-7, 11-1 after having stunned top seeded Korean Jang Woojin in the pre-quarterfinals on Friday. The No 134 ranked Indian proved that his win over the Korean was no fluke when he took on the 20-year-old Chinese — a distinct favourite to win the tie against the Indian.

#TableTennis🏓

Amazing performance by 🇮🇳 @HarmeetDesai at WTT Contender Lagos,🇳🇬

After knocking out No.1⃣ seed, 🇰🇷's Woojin yesterday, WR 134 Harmeet beats WR 26, 🇨🇳's Xiang Peng 3-1 (11-7, 5-11, 11-7, 11-1) in QF to reach the final 4

Well done Mate & all the best for the SF👏 pic.twitter.com/QU2CvmyCyx

— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) June 17, 2023

Desai had the measure of the youngster and won the first game easily. Known for his attacking prowess, the Chinese fought back well in the second in which the Indian paddler made several unforced errors. But soon, Harmeet hit the groove to go 2-1 up. In the fourth game, the Indian gave a few lessons in service and attack to the young Chinese and made him look like a mere spectator to emerge on top. “It was another fantastic win for me after I won the quarter-finals. My form is good, and I hope to continue the way in the semi-finals against German Dimitrij Ovtcharov, world No 14,” said Harmeet. “It will be a tough match, but I will try my best,” he added. Earlier, Manav Thakkar, Archana Kamath and Reeth Rishya also put up a good show before bowing out. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.