'VINASH' KAAL ON THE MAT

Vinesh Phogat in sight of gold

- Haridev Pushparaj

Vinesh Phogat reached where no Indian woman wrestler has done before, storming into the final of the 50 kg freestyle event at the Paris Olympics with a resounding 5-0 win by points over Cuba's Yusneylys Guzman in the semifinal.

Vinesh has thus assured India of its fourth medal in the Olympics when she will fight for the gold against USA's Sarah Hildebrandt in the final on Wednesday. This is India's chance to win their first-ever gold medal in wrestling.

Earlier, having caused the biggest sensation in the wrestling competition by stunning Japan's hitherto undefeated Yui Susaki in her first bout, Vinesh spent the opening minutes of the semifinal on the defensive trying to thwart the Cuban's constant attempts to attack. The cagey semifinal encounter saw Vinesh hold off Guzman's attacks and wait for the perfect opportunity to pounce, just like she did in the bout with Susaki, launching a counterattack with 30 seconds remaining.