The Indian women’s team responded strongly to their opening loss to record a commanding victory over Ukraine in their second Group A tie at the Uber Cup final on Saturday. The win keeps India’s campaign alive ahead of a crucial clash in the final group stage.
After losing 2-3 to hosts Denmark in the opening game, India needed a solid performance to stay in contention. They did just that, sealing the tie by winning all three singles matches to take an unassailable 3-0 lead.
INDIA RULES SINGLES WHICH TIES TIE
The attack was led by 18-year-old Unnati Hooda, who set the tone with a straight games victory over Polina Buhrová. Hooda overcame a tight match 21-19, 22-20 in 46 minutes, showing composure at key moments.
Tanvi Sharma then had to stumble badly in the second singles match. After taking the opening game in stride, Jevheniia Kantemyr pushed her to the decider. However, Sharma regained control in the third game and sealed a 21-12, 17-21, 21-10 victory in a 49-minute battle.
Devika Sihag wrapped up the tie in the third singles, beating Maria Stoliarenko in straight games. She secured a hard-fought first match before closing out the match 23-21, 21-13 in 38 minutes.
With the tie already decided, the remaining two doubles matches became meaningless.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR INDIA
The win brings India back into the mix after a disappointing start to their campaign. Ukraine, who also lost their opening 0-5 tie against China, are now virtually out of contention for the quarter-finals.
With only the top two teams from each group progressing, India’s qualification will now depend on their last encounter in the group stage.
They face a tough test against China on Monday, a game that will likely decide their place in the knockout rounds.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
26 Apr 2026 09:36 IST
