Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: India delivered a commanding and clinical performance to storm into the semifinals of the Thomas Cup, defeating Chinese Taipei 3-0 in a one-sided quarterfinal on Friday to guarantee themselves at least a bronze medal.The tie was sealed in style by Ayush Shetty, who produced a composed straight-game victory over Lin Chun-Yi, winning 21-16, 21-17. Calm under pressure and in control throughout, Shetty ensured India wrapped up the contest with two matches still to be played.
Lakshya’s heroic comeback sets the tone
Earlier, it was Lakshya Sen who ignited India’s charge with a stunning comeback win over World No. 6 Chou Tien Chen. In a gripping contest lasting one hour and 28 minutes, Lakshya battled from behind to clinch an 18-21, 22-20, 21-17 victory.With their head-to-head evenly poised at 4-4 before the match, the clash lived up to expectations. Lakshya trailed for large parts and even faced two match points in the second game. Showing remarkable composure, he saved both and forced a decider before taking control as Chou began to tire, sealing a crucial opening point for India.
Satwik-Chirag extend dominance
The doubles pairing of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty then delivered under pressure to double India’s lead. The world No. 4 duo edged past Chiu Hsiang Chieh and Wang Chi-Lin 23-21, 19-21, 21-12 in a high-intensity encounter.After narrowly snatching the opening game and dropping the second, the Indian pair raised their level in the decider. With aggressive net play and sharp attacking strokes, they raced to an early lead and never looked back, sealing the match comfortably to put India firmly in control at 2-0.Statement win and medal assuredWith momentum firmly on their side, India completed a dominant clean sweep, underlining their credentials as serious title contenders. The victory not only sends them into the semifinals but also ensures a podium finish in the prestigious team event.India, the 2022 champions, will face either Japan or France in Saturday’s semifinals. The tricolour nation has also previously won three bronze medals in 1952, 1955 and 1979, adding further historical weight to this latest achievement as they chase another title.
