Team India members celebrate after their quarter-final victory. (X photo) NEW DELHI: India produced a commanding and clinical performance to reach the semi-finals of the Thomas Cup, beating Chinese Taipei 3-0 in a one-sided quarter-final on Friday to secure at least a bronze medal.The tie was sealed in style by Ayush Shetty who scored a straight sets victory over Lin Chun-Yi as he won 21-16, 21-17. Calm under pressure and in control throughout, Shetty ensured India wrapped up the contest with two matches to play.
Lakshya’s heroic comeback sets the tone
Earlier, it was Lakshya Sen who sparked India’s charge with a stunning comeback win over world number six Chou Tien Chen. In a thrilling contest that lasted one hour and 28 minutes, Lakshya fought from behind to secure an 18-21, 22-20, 21-17 victory.With their head-to-head tied at 4-4 before the match, the clash lived up to expectations. Lakshya was largely stretched and even faced two match points in the second game. He showed remarkable composure to save both and force a decider before taking control as Chou began to tire, sealing a crucial opening point for India.
Satwik-Chirag extends dominance
The doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty then doubled India’s lead under pressure. The world No. 4 duo overcame Chiu Hsiang Chieh and Wang Chi-Lin 23-21, 19-21, 21-12 in a high-intensity encounter.After narrowly grabbing the opening game and dropping the second, the Indian pair raised the bar in the decider. With aggressive net play and sharp attacking strokes, they raced to an early lead and never looked back, comfortably sealing the match to keep India firmly in control at 2-0.Win and medals guaranteedWith momentum firmly on their side, India completed a dominant clean sweep, underlining their reputation as serious title contenders. The victory not only sends them to the semi-finals, but also secures a place on the podium in the prestigious team competition.India, the 2022 champions, will face either Japan or France in Saturday’s semi-finals. The tricolor nation also previously won three bronze medals in 1952, 1955 and 1979, adding further historical weight to this latest achievement as they chase another title.
