NAGPUR’S mixed doubles pair of Piyush Makhe and Manisha Bhawatkar triumphed at the Maharashtra State Open Badminton Tournament clinching the title at the NSCI Stadium in Mumbai. The tournament, held from November 14-17, saw top players from across the state compete for top honours. The city duo, considered underdogs, made a solid ststement and stunned top seeds Vineet Dabak and Swapnal Choudhary to reach quarter-finals. Makhe-Bhawatkar defeated Nakul Bali and Priya Ambekar in a thrilling final in straight two games 21-19, 21-13 showcasing exceptional teamwork and skill.