Joshna Chinappa pockets Chennai Open title

Chennai - Joshna Chinappa won her sixth title on the professional tour when she beat England’s Sarah Jane Perry 9-11, 11-4, 11-8, 12-10, in the final of the Chennai Open squash tournament here Saturday.

The 25-year old Joshna, on a comeback trail following knee injury, displayed touches of her vintage form that had taken her to a high of 28 in World rankings two years ago as against the current 71 as she overcame a sluggish start to tame Perry.

In the first game, Perry jumped from 8-all to 11-8 to take early advantage, but Joshna fought back to take the second after opening a 6-3 lead.

The third game was close as Joshna trailed 4-6, but took four points on the trot aided by a “stroke” decision that went in her favour. Perry fought hard as she brought into play her sharp backhand to pull Joshna from side to side, but the Indian was not to be denied.

With a 2-1 lead, Joshna fell in arrears in the fourth game, but recovered brilliantly from 3-6 to win the game on extra points.