India’s chances of making a podium finish perished as they were beaten comprehensively by Chinese Taipei 37-95 on the third day of the FIBA Asia under-16 girls basketball championship at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Balewadi, on Wednesday.
With two consecutive defeats, India’s chances of making the semifinals are all but over.
The hosts never had a good start and several miss-passes in the initial moments ruined their chances.
“We had closely observed India’s game yesterday and decided to go for a safe game in initial minutes. Aggressive defence and restricting Indian players from taking three-pointers were among our strategies. And I am happy it worked,” said Taipei coach Chen Mei Li.
Indian coach Tirthesh Guha blamed the poor performance of their key players. “Amruta (Bhuskute) was not fully fit. Moreover, Shirin Limye, Sneha Rajguru didn’t perform up to the mark. None of our plans worked today,” he said.
“It was a good opportunity to remain in fray for the semifinals,” added Guha.
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