Shenzhen, Sept 5:
India’s Kidambi Srikanth produced an impressive straight-games victory over world No. 9 Canadian Victor Lai to storm into the men’s singles quarter-finals of the China Masters Super 750 badminton tournament.
The former world No. 1, who won a silver medal at the 2021 World Championships, defeated Lai 21-18, 21-19 at the Shenzhen Arena. Srikanth held his nerve in the crucial stages of both games to complete a significant upset against the higher-ranked Canadian.
Srikanth’s victory is particularly notable given Lai’s recent credentials. The Canadian is a bronze medallist from the last two BWF World Championships and entered the contest as the world No. 9. Srikanth, however, dictated the tempo during the key exchanges and closed out the match in straight games.
The Indian veteran will now look to carry the momentum into the quarter-finals as he attempts to make a deep run at one of the season’s major BWF World Tour events. His performance also provides a boost to India’s campaign at the prestigious Super 750 tournament.
There was disappointment elsewhere for the Indian contingent. Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto bowed out of the mixed doubles competition after losing 18-21, 18-21 to Chinese Taipei’s Liu Kuang Heng and Hsu Yin Hui.
Young Indian women’s singles player Tanvi Sharma also exited the tournament after suffering defeat in her match, ending India’s hopes in that section of the draw.
While several Indian combinations were unable to progress, Srikanth’s victory over a top-10 opponent has emerged as the highlight of the campaign. The 2021 world championship silver medallist will now carry India’s hopes in the men’s singles quarter-final, with a place in the last four at stake.
The China Masters, one of the BWF World Tour’s Super 750 events, has once again brought together a strong international field. Srikanth’s ability to overcome Lai in straight games marks a timely statement from the experienced Indian shuttler as he continues his campaign in Shenzhen.