CHINGDAO, China – Defending champions India stumbled but stood tall in the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) women’s division. Despite a gripping 2-3 defeat to Thailand in their Group Y clash on Thursday, the Indian squad secured a quarter-final berth, showcasing resilience that defines champions.
Thailand clinched the top spot in Group Y with this hard-fought victory, while India grabbed second place. Both teams advanced to the knockout stages, setting the stage for more intense battles. The match was a rollercoaster, highlighting the depth and drama of international badminton.
India struck first as World No. 42 Tanvi Sharma outlasted higher-ranked Busanan Ongbamrungphan (World No. 16) in a thrilling 21-14, 17-21, 21-18 encounter that lasted over an hour. Sharma’s grit turned the tide early.
The doubles duo of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly doubled the lead, edging Tidapron Klaisun and Nattamon Laissuan 21-14, 20-22, 21-11. Their synergy pushed India ahead 2-0.
Thailand roared back. Rakshita Ramraj fell to 19-year-old Pichaemon Opritniputh 19-21, 17-21, unable to sustain momentum. Then, Hathairat Mijad and Napaporn Tungkasatan overcame Tanisha Crasto and Shruti Mishra 21-19, 14-21, 15-21, leveling scores at 2-2.
The decider saw Pornpicha Choeikeewong dominate Malvika Bansod 18-21, 14-21 in 40 minutes, sealing Thailand’s group lead. Yet, India’s prior 5-0 rout of Myanmar ensured their progression.
This event qualifies teams for the Thomas and Uber Cup finals in Horsens, Denmark, this April-May. As defending Uber Cup champions, India’s women carry lofty expectations. The men, bronze winners in 2016 and 2020, aim higher under China’s reign.
India’s blend of youth and experience promises fireworks in the quarters, proving defeats can fuel greater triumphs.