Chümoukedima, November 8 (MExN): Assam emerged victorious in the team event of the ongoing 4th NIAPA Northeast Open TT Tournament held at the NIAPA Mini Stadium in Chümoukedima on November 8. Assam defeated Mizoram 3-2 in a thrilling final to claim the championship title.
The Assam team, led by National Games bronze medalist Shankab Gautam Baruah, Agniv Bhaskar Gohain, Northeast gold medalist Trisha Gogoi, and players Akankhya Borpujari and Diganto Mahato, showcased excellent teamwork and skill throughout the competition. Mizoram’s squad included rising star Jeho Himnakulpuingheta, Alberto Ruata, Lalthansangi Sailo, and Malsawmtluangi.
In the finals, Assam seized the advantage with dominant performances. Agniv Bhaskar Gohain defeated Jeho Himnakulpuingheta 3-0 in the men’s singles, and Trisha Gogoi secured a 3-0 win against Malsawmtluangi in the women’s singles, giving Assam a 2-0 lead. Mizoram fought back as Jeho Himnakulpuingheta and Alberto Ruata beat Gohain and Baruah in the men’s doubles, narrowing the score to 2-1. However, Trisha Gogoi and Akankhya Borpujari’s win over Lalthansangi Sailo and Malsawmtluangi gave Assam an unassailable 3-1 lead. Despite a loss in the mixed doubles, Assam secured the title.
Assam was awarded a cash prize of Rs 90,000 along with citations, while Mizoram received Rs 50,000 for their runner-up performance. Polan John, the Deputy Commissioner of Chümoukedima, graced the final match as the guest of honor and presented the awards to the winning team.
The tournament also featured renowned players such as defending Northeast champion Trisha Gogoi, Jeho Himnakulpuingheta, former two-time NE Olympic gold medalist Tanushree Dasgupta from Meghalaya, and former Northeast Games TT gold medalist Alberto Ruata.
