India’s top-ranked doubles pair of Satwiksiraj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty crashed out of the All England Open early on Wednesday.
Malaysia’s Aaron Tai and Khai Xing Kang at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham.
The world No. 4 pair went down 23-21, 21-12 to the 33rd-ranked Malaysian combine, a result that will deal a major blow to India’s hopes at one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
A promising start gives way to Malaysian dominance
Satwik and Chirag started the competition with real intention. They quickly raced to an 11-6 advantage at halftime of the opening set and looked well in control.
However, the Malaysian couple refused to budge. Tai and Kang clawed their way back into the contest and leveled the score at 16, shifting the momentum firmly in their favor. The former world junior champions then seized the initiative, charging forward and putting the Indian duo under considerable pressure.
Satwik and Chirag fought hard to stay in the contest and managed to save two game points before eventually giving up the opening game in a thrilling finish. It was a collapse from which it was difficult to recover.
The second game is a one-sided affair
The second game told a completely different story. Tai and Kang carried their dynamic into the new ensemble and never looked back. They held a commanding 11-7 lead at the break and then continued to dominate, scoring just five points en route to ending the game.
It was a comprehensive victory for the Malaysian pair and a disciplined afternoon for the Indian combination, who will be left to reflect on how a strong opening position crumbled so quickly.
Lakshya Sen provides a bright spot for India
Despite Satwik and Chirag ending India’s men’s doubles campaign, there was joy on the opening day. Lakshya Sen caused a stunning upset by defeating world number one Shi Yuqi of China to advance to the second round.
Sen will face Hong Kong’s Angus Ng Ka Long in the pre-quarterfinals on Thursday, giving Indian fans something to look forward to after a disappointing day in the doubles draw.
– The end
Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
04 March 2026 19:16 IST
