Jodhpur: Chandigarh University’s men rose gloriously from last year’s heartbreak to script a stirring 3–2 victory over defending champions Chitkara University in a pulsating final at the fifth Khelo India University Games, held at the Chainpura Indoor Stadium today.
Earlier, Chitkara had swept past Adamas University in straight games to claim their spot in the title clash. However, Chandigarh had other plans—and the hunger of runners-up-turned resolute contenders.
Though Divyansh Srivastava and Jash Modi stumbled early against Raegan Albuquerque and Yashansh Malik, Chitkara’s dream of back-to-back glory began to fade when Kushal Chopda snatched a lifeline for Chandigarh. A nervy Wesley Do Rossario failed to convert a championship point, and from that moment on, Chandigarh’s revival gathered unstoppable momentum. Jash and Divyansh regrouped magnificently to seal the comeback and the crown.
Full credit to Chandigarh University—for their spirit, their steel, and their statement. On a stage where champions are tested, they didn’t just turn the corner—they owned the moment. What a fitting finale to the Khelo India University Games.
From the opening serve to the final rally, the match brimmed with long exchanges, deft placements, and razor-sharp precision. A few fortuitous edges added to the drama, but it was Chandigarh’s composure, grit, and relentless belief that ultimately carried the day.
Chitkara University’s women’s team, runners-up to SRM University in the previous edition, returned this time with renewed purpose and a noticeably stronger lineup. Their improvement was evident not just in the results but also in the composure and confidence they carried through both the league and knockout stages. By the time they reached the final, there was a quiet assurance in the way they approached every point.
CHITKARA WOMEN WIN GOLD
Suhana Saini set the tone early, racing to a 2–0 lead against Prithoki Chakraborty. But the Adamas University player refused to fade, clawing her way back with sharp rallies and some clever placement, especially exploiting Suhana’s backhand side. As the match tightened and the score levelled, the tension mounted. Yet in the decisive fifth game, Suhana rediscovered her rhythm, surging ahead with a commanding lead. Though Prithoki closed the gap late, Suhana held firm, sealing the win and giving Chitkara the early advantage.
Next up, Pritha Vartikar looked in complete control as she went 2–0 up against Sneha Bhowmick. However, what initially appeared to be a straightforward finish briefly turned tense. Sneha fought back bravely to level the match, showing grit and determination. Still, Pritha steadied herself at just the right moment, regaining her composure to close out the contest and power Chitkara closer to victory.
Then came Lakshita Narang—calm, focused, and utterly unflappable. With quiet determination, she executed her game plan to perfection, barely allowing her opponent room to breathe. Her precise, clinical play ensured that Chitkara sealed the title in style.
For Chitkara, this was more than just redemption—it was a statement. A triumph built on preparation, resilience, and the steady belief that experience, when coupled with hunger, always finds its reward.
Results (Team):
Men: Final: Chandigarh University bt Chitkara University 3-2 (Divyansh Srivastava lost to Raegan Albuquerque 11-9, 6-11, 19-21, 5-11, Jash Modi lost to Yashansh Malik 10-12, 11-2, 5-11, 11-7, 9-11, Kushal Chopda bt Wesley Do rosario 14-12, 11-8, 4-11, 9-11, 13-11, Jash beat Raegan 11-8, 15-13, 7-11, 11-4, Divyansh beat Yshansh 11-8, 11-9, 6-11, 8-11, 13-11).
Women: Final: Chitkara University bt Adamas University 3-0 (Suhana Saini bt Prithoki Chakraborty 11-7, 11-6, 9-11, 10-12, 11-8, Pritha Priya Vartikar bt Sneha Bhowmick 11-5, 11-9, 3-11, 11-7, Lakshita Narang bt Sampriti Roy 11-9, 11-8, 11-7).
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