India put up a robust present towards Twenty seventh-ranked Iran.© Twitter
India put up a robust present towards Twenty seventh-ranked Iran however went down 53-86 of their Group E match of the continued FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers, New Delhi on Monday. The 81st-ranked India made a formidable begin with ahead Pranav Prince being correct along with his interceptions because the hosts took a two-point lead within the first minute. Iran gamers took their time to seek out rhythm however as soon as they did, they used their superior physicality to get previous the Indian defence.
Nevertheless, India managed to stay within the sport, trailing by solely three factors on the finish of the opening quarter.
India tried to counter the guests with fast-paced runs, countering over 40 per cent of their two-pointers. But, they struggled on the rebounds and trailed 32-42 at half-time.
Prince was the highest scorer for the India with 11 factors, whereas Arvind Kumar Muthu Krishnan and Muin Bek Hafeez contributed with 9 factors every.
For Iran, Benham Yakhchali collected 15 factors whereas Mohammad Amini and Salar Monji earned 14 factors every.
India head coach Veselin Matic stated, “India has expertise; we’d like extra expertise. Now we have some hole now earlier than the subsequent qualifier in November, and the nationwide group shall be taking part in membership championship and a number of different publicity journeys. We’re assured that we may give a successful efficiency.” India, who misplaced their opening contest towards Kazakhstan 50-63, are at the moment positioned on the backside of the group desk.
The subsequent alternative for India to show round their fortunes shall be towards Qatar in November.
The qualifiers are scheduled to run till February 2025. The highest two groups from the six teams will make it to the principle match in Saudi Arabia subsequent yr, whereas the third-placed groups in every group would play the ultimate qualifier spherical.
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