HS Prannoy and PV Sindhu, two of India’s top badminton players, advanced to the second round of the Badminton Asia Championships in Ningbo, China, on Wednesday. Prannoy, ranked ninth in the world, displayed remarkable resilience in a three-game victory over China’s Lu Guang Zu, while Sindhu, a double Olympic medalist, overcame a tough challenge from Malaysia’s Goh Jin Wei.
Prannoy, who has been battling gut issues this season, faced an uphill battle against Lu, who had won all three of their previous encounters. However, the Indian showed great determination, rallying from a 6-1 deficit in the second game and saving two match points in the third game to secure a 17-21, 23-21, 23-21 victory.
Sindhu, who is seeking to regain her form ahead of the Paris Olympics, also faced a stern test against Goh. The Indian lost the first game but fought back to win the next two, 21-14, 21-19. Sindhu will next face China’s Han Yue, against whom she has a perfect 5-0 record.
However, it was a disappointing day for other Indian shuttlers. Lakshya Sen, who is also bound for the Olympics, lost to top seed Shi Yu Qi of China, while Kidambi Srikanth suffered a defeat against Indonesia’s Anthony Ginting. Priyanshu Rajawat and the doubles pair of MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila also exited the tournament in the first round.
Prannoy’s victory over Lu was particularly significant, as it marked his first win over the Chinese player. The Indian will now face Lin Chun-Yi of Chinese Taipei in the second round.
Sindhu’s win over Goh was also important, as it gave her a much-needed confidence boost. The Indian will be hoping to continue her winning ways against Han Yue and secure a place in the quarterfinals.
