The Indian men’s badminton team delivered a commanding performance against Hong Kong in the Badminton Asia Team Championships in Selangor, Malaysia. Once more, the Indian team entrusted HS Prannoy with the opening match, but the World No. 7 faltered against Ng Ka Long Angus, conceding the first point to Hong Kong in straight sets of 21-18, 21-14.
However, Prannoy’s setback was merely a blip in an otherwise commanding performance by the Men’s Team. They swiftly rebounded, sweeping aside their opponents in the subsequent four games to secure a decisive 4-1 victory for India. Despite an initial setback with HS Prannoy losing to Angus Ng Ka Long in the first match, the team rallied back to secure a decisive 4-1 victory, ensuring their place in the quarterfinals. The turnaround was led by the dynamic duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, who overcame the Hong Kong pair of Lui Chun Wai and Yeung Shing Choi with a score of 21-16, 21-11.
Following this, Lakshya Sen continued the winning streak by defeating Chan Yik Chak with a comfortable 21-14, 21-9 scoreline. The doubles team of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila further extended India’s lead by beating Chow Hin Long and Hung Kuei Chun with a dominant 21-12, 21-7 win. Kidambi Srikanth also contributed to the victory, securing a win against Jason Gunawan with scores of 21-14, and 21-18.
This impressive performance by the Indian men’s team not only booked their spot in the quarterfinals but also set up a highly anticipated clash with China to decide the group winners. The success of the Indian team at the championships reflects the depth and talent within the squad, as they continue to make strides on the international stage. Their next challenge awaits against China, where they’ll vie for group supremacy on Thursday.
