The Thomas & Uber Cup: The women’s team advances to the quarterfinals with their second victory

Isharani Baruah and Anmol Kharb radiated brilliance as the Indian women’s contingent gracefully advanced to the quarterfinals of the Uber Cup badminton tournament, securing a resounding 4-1 victory over Singapore in the second round of Group A today.

India, triumphing over Canada 4-1 in the inaugural match, showcased another splendid performance, rebounding from Ashmita Chaliha’s initial setback to clinch successive triumphs, thus emerging triumphant.

In another Group A encounter, China triumphed over Canada 3-0, ensuring the progression of both India and their Eastern counterparts to the quarterfinals. The impending showdown between the two nations on Tuesday will determine the group’s leader.

Chaliha, ranked 53rd, encountered formidable resistance against the 18th-ranked Yeo Jia Min, succumbing 15-21. The national champions, Priya Konjengbam and Shruti Mishra, ranked 67th, swiftly rejuvenated India’s campaign with a convincing 21-15 21-16 victory over Xiao En Heng and Jin Yu Jia.

Isharani, positioned 83rd, bolstered India’s advantage with a commanding 21-13 21-16 triumph over Insyirah Khan. The 64th-ranked duo of Simran Singhi and Ritika Thaker asserted their dominance with a comprehensive 21-8 21-11 win against Yi Ting Elsa Lai and Zan Michelle. Anmol, positioned 258th, ultimately sealed the victory with a decisive 21-15 21-13 victory over Lee Xin Megan.

“This match held immense significance. Hence, there was a palpable tension, albeit of a constructive nature. While our confidence wavered during the initial encounter, today, we exuded a newfound assurance,” remarked Shruti.

India has previously reached the Uber Cup semifinals in 1957, 2014, and 2016.

In the men’s division, the defending champions, India, are slated to confront England tomorrow, following their 4-1 triumph over Thailand in the inaugural Group C fixture.