India stormed into the quarterfinals of the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2024 with a resounding 5-0 victory over Macau in their opening group-stage encounter in Qingdao, China.

The Indian squad demonstrated remarkable dominance in every match, outclassing their opponents with precision and control.

This emphatic win has not only secured India’s spot in the quarterfinals but has also set the stage for a thrilling encounter against Korea in their final group match, which will determine the group winner.

This decisive victory has not only earned India a place in the quarterfinals but has also paved the way for an exciting showdown against Korea in their final group match, which will establish the group champion.
 

Sathish Kumar Karunakaran & Aadya Variyath Set the Tone

The action began with the mixed doubles contest, where India’s Sathish Kumar Karunakaran and Aadya Variyath delivered an authoritative performance. The duo, fresh from their National Games gold medal triumph, overpowered Macau’s Iok Chong Leong and Weng Chi Ng with a commanding 21-10, 21-9 win. Their sharp net play and aggressive shot-making set the tone for the day, giving India a 1-0 lead in the tie.

Lakshya Sen’s Tactical Brilliance Secures Second Win

Next up was the men’s singles clash, featuring India’s Lakshya Sen, a bronze medallist at the 2021 World Championships. Facing Macau’s Pang Fong Pui, Sen displayed his characteristic footspeed and sharp stroke play, maintaining control throughout the match. With a mix of well-placed smashes and deceptive net shots, Sen sealed the 21-16, 21-12 victory, extending India’s lead to 2-0.

Malvika Bansod Dominates in Women’s Singles

India’s rising star Malvika Bansod, a 2024 Hylo Open finalist, stepped onto the court with confidence. Taking on Hao Wai Chan, Bansod dictated the pace of the match from the start, using her precise drop shots and powerful baseline play to unsettle her opponent. With a commanding 21-15, 21-9 win, Bansod ensured India’s triumph in the tie, taking an unassailable 3-0 lead.

Chirag Shetty & MR Arjun Extend India’s Domination

The men’s doubles encounter saw Chirag Shetty pairing up with MR Arjun against Macau’s Chin Pon Pui and Kok Wen Vong. Despite some early resistance from the Macau duo, the Indian pair quickly took control with aggressive net play and seamless coordination. Their 21-15, 21-19 victory pushed India’s tally to 4-0.

Treesa Jolly & Gayatri Gopichand Finish the Rout

In the final match of the tie, India’s world No. 9-ranked women’s doubles team, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, stepped up against Ng Weng Chi and Pui Chi Wa. The Indian duo made light work of their opponents, delivering a 21-10, 21-5 thrashing to complete the 5-0 whitewash.

India’s Next Big Challenge: Korea

With this dominant performance, India has comfortably booked its place in the quarterfinals. However, their final group-stage encounter against Korea will be crucial in determining the group leader. Korea, known for its strong badminton tradition, will provide a sterner test than Macau. The outcome of this match could impact India’s road ahead in the tournament.

India’s Road to Glory in the Championship

India’s squad has proven its mettle in this opening encounter, and the team’s blend of experienced campaigners and young stars makes them a formidable force. The likes of Lakshya Sen, Malvika Bansod, Chirag Shetty, Treesa Jolly, and others have stepped up to the occasion, showing that India is ready to take on tougher challenges.

If India can maintain this momentum and overcome Korea, they will have a stronger path in the knockout rounds, significantly boosting their chances of winning the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships title.