A two-day training camp preceded a day of on-court action at the Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre, where the two sides squared off in a series of singles, doubles and mixed doubles matches.
The tourists signalled their intent from the outset as they won three of the four singles ties, although the soldiers claimed a notable scalp as Pte Bishal Khadka (QOGLR) triumphed over Paralympian Meril Loquette.
The former Nepalese under-19 player made a storming start against the double European para champion before being pegged back in the second game. However, he held his nerve in the decider as a 21-16 success saw him secure a famous victory.
“I was excited to face him as he’s the world number two para player,” Khadka (pictured right) told SoldierSport.
“He changed it up in the second game, using his experience and tactics, but I managed to move him around the court in the third to build the rallies and points.
“He is a professional who trains four or five hours a day, so it is a great win for me.”
Loquette gained revenge by beating Khadka in the doubles, with the army’s top female pair – Capt Keady Smith (RAMS) and LCpl Imogen Storey (Int Corps) – also tasting defeat.
The duo had earlier lost their singles matches to Laura Moire and Ines Vandenhone respectively.
“We were working really hard,” Smith said after her doubles tie. “We were supportive of each other but wanted to have some fun as well.
“The French are a good team, and this is an opportunity for us to look at some new partnerships and work on a few things. They are a fit outfit, and we are trying our best.”
A total of 16 players were in action for the army, and the squad is due to face Durham University later this month as their build-up to March’s forces clash continues.
“The French have strong national-level players in their squad, as do we,” said men’s skipper Capt Tom Machon (RA).
“This is the first opportunity we’ve had to get everyone together since the summer.
“It is a chance to see how well people are playing and who we might take forward to Durham.
“Selection for the team is so competitive and there are those who were included last year that might not make it this time round. The Royal Air Force have won it for the past couple of seasons, but there is no reason why we cannot be strong.”
