Pakistan secure convincing win over India in Commonwealth Beach Handball opener

KARACHI: Pakistan got their Commonwealth Beach Handball Championship campaign off to a flying start with a commanding 2-0 victory over traditional rivals India on Thursday.

Playing at the Khedhufushi City Beach Handball Court, Pakistan dominated both sets to register a commanding victory. Pakistan clinched the first set 26-9 before stepping up the pace in the second, cruising to a 34-12 finish.

Ahmed Hassan Baig delivered a standout performance for Pakistan and was named the man of the match.

The event, running from Sept. 18 to 24, features six participating teams. The competition is being played on a league basis, with the top four advancing to the semifinals.

Pakistan will next face the Maldives and Sri Lanka on Friday.

In a moment of contrast to recent tensions in cricket between the two nations, the Indian handball players opted not to violate the spirit of sports and shook hands with Pakistani players.