In the quarterfinals of the BWF Thomas and Uber Cup 2024 in Chengdu, India faced tough challenges against powerhouse opponents, with the men’s and women’s teams battling it out against formidable opposition.
Despite a valiant effort, India’s journey in the competition came to an end, mirroring the women’s earlier defeat to Japan.
In the men’s quarterfinal clash against China, India’s top men’s singles player, HS Prannoy, displayed resilience but ultimately fell to Shi Yu Qi after a gruelling encounter. Prannoy cited fatigue from a previous match and China’s advantage of a rest day as contributing factors to his loss.
The Chinese team extended their lead as Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang secured victory against Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty in a closely contested doubles match.
However, Lakshya Sen provided a glimmer of hope for India, overcoming a slow start to triumph over Li Shi Feng and keep Indian aspirations alive.
Despite the spirited efforts of Dhruv Kapila and Sai Pratheek K in the doubles, they couldn’t overcome the formidable pairing of He Ji Ting and Ren Xiang Yu.
In the women’s quarterfinal, India faced a tough challenge against Japan. Ashmita Chaliha fought bravely against World No. 11 Aya Ohori, saving a match point and leading in the decider before eventually succumbing to her experienced opponent.
The formidable combination of Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida extended Japan’s lead with a commanding victory over Priya Konjengbam and Shruti Mishra.
Isharani Baruah showcased her potential against former world champion Nozomi Okuhara but couldn’t maintain her momentum, ultimately conceding defeat.
Result: Women: India lost to Japan 0-3 (Ashmita Chaliha lost to Aya Ohori 10-21, 22-20, 15-21; Priya Konjengbam/Shruti Mishra lost to Nami Matsuyama/Chiharu Shida 8-21, 9-21; Isharani Baruah lost to Nozomi Okuhara 15-21, 12-21)
Men: India lost to China 1-3 (HS Prannoy lost to Shi Yu Qi 21-15, 11-21, 14-21; Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty lost to Liang Wei Keng/Wang Chang 15-21, 21-11, 12-21; Lakshya Sen bt Li Shi Feng 13-21, 21-8, 21-14; Dhruv Kapila/Sai Pratheek K lost to He Ji Ting/Ren Xiang Yu 10-21, 10-21)
