Ananya Muralidharan andDivyanshi Bhowmick produced a spirited performance to clinch the Under-15Girls’ Doubles gold at the WTT Youth Star Contender in Skopje, edging pastChina’s Zhao Wangqi and Liu Ziling 3-2 in a pulsating final.

The Indian pair showedremarkable grit in a see-saw battle that tested both nerves and stamina. Aftertrading games with the Chinese, Ananya and Divyanshi kept their composure inthe tense decider, saving crucial match points before sealing the contest 11-08,07-11, 11-08, 06-11, 14-12.

Their ability to soak uppressure and respond with attacking strokes in tense moments proved decisive inlanding India the top podium finish.

Earlier in the semifinals,the duo had overcome compatriots Riana Bhoota and Ankolika Chakravarty 3-1 (11-02,10-12, 11-03, 11-06), with Riana and Ankolika eventually settling for bronze.

India’s medal tally wasfurther bolstered by P.B. Abhinand and Ritvik Gupta, who bagged silver medalsin the Under-19 and Under-15 Boys’ singles, respectively. Abhinand fell toJapan’s Iwaida Shunto in straight games (06-11, 07-11, 08-11), while Ritvikwent down fighting against Korea’s Lee Seungsoo 08-11, 05-11, 08-11 in histitle clash.

There was more cheer indoubles as well, with bronze medals coming India’s way through P.B. Abhinandand Syndrela Das in the Under-19 Mixed Doubles, and the pair of Ritvik Guptaand Sahil Rawat in the Under-15 Boys’ Doubles.

The Indians won six medalsin all from the North Macedonia outing.

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