Jammu, May 1 -- A thrilling battle in Chengdu as Chaliha saves match point against Ohori

The Indian women's badminton squad was faced with a tough challenge today as they took on powerhouse Japan in the Uber Cup quarterfinals in Chengdu. Led by the experienced campaigner Ashmita Chaliha, India aimed to spring a surprise against the six-time champions.

Chaliha stamped her authority right from the start in her clash against Aya Ohori, taking the experienced Japanese to deuce in the opening game. However, Ohori managed to shift gears and pulled away to take the first game 21-10. But Chaliha showed her fighting spirit in the second game, saving a match point against Ohori late in the game at 20-19 down. She won three consecutive points to l...