Alex Eala starts maiden Asian Games campaign vs Pakistani foe

Photo from Alex Eala’s Facebook

HANGZHOU, China – Alex Eala begins her medal bid in the women’s singles event on Monday in the 19th Asian Games here.

Eala battles Sarah Ibrahim Khan of Pakistan in one of the featured matches at the city’s Olympic Stadium.

She drew an opening-round bye during Saturday’s draw.

The 5-foot-9 Eala has little room for error against the 32-year-old Khan, who is a veteran of many big tournaments in the region.

Eala, ranked No. 191 in the world, is hoping to make an impression in her maiden Asian Games appearance.

The 18-year-old ace will also play in the mixed doubles with Ruben Gonzales where the two are among the favorites owing to her partner’s impressive resume.

They are pitted against the Nepalese bets.

The PH team, with Francis Alcantara as the third member, is hoping to end the country’s 17-year medal drought in the continental showpiece or since Fil-Am Cecil Mamiit led the team to two bronze medal finishes in the Doha edition.