India's Saurav Ghosal loses at the Asian squash final

India's Saurav Ghosal went down fighting in the finals against top-seed Max Lee of Hong Kong, ranked 17 in the world, to finish runners-up at the Asian Squash championship here today. Ghosal faded after a bright start, which saw him win the opening game, dropping just five points, to go down 11-5, 4- 11, 8-11, 7-11 in 61 minutes.

The Indian, cheered by a holiday crowd at the Express Avenue mall, was quickly off the blocks and hit some delectable shots to take the opening game. Undeterred by the loss of the first game, Lee roared back and ran away to win the second to level the match. The third game was a long one as both gave nothing away.

Ghosal played well but his rival always had the answers to whatever was thrown at him. He hit some superb winners of his own to take the third game and gain an edge. The fourth game appeared to be heading to a rout as Lee surged to a 8-2 lead before Ghosal fought back. He saved two championship points before handing the no.1 seed his maiden Asian title.