Srikanth enters third Super Series final in a row

Sydney, June 24

Kidambi Srikanth grabbed a third successive Super Series final spot at the Australian Open with a straight-game victory over China’s Shi Yuqi.

Srikanth, who had reached the summit clash in Singapore and Indonesia, joined Indonesia’s Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei, the Chinese duo of Chen Long and Lin Dan to become only the fifth player to contest three successive Super Series finals.

Srikanth outclassed Shi 21-10 21-14 in a 37-minute match to set up the final with Chen Long in the final. 

Srikanth had beaten him at the quarters of the Singapore Open in April. Srikanth relied on strong returns to lead 9-6 in the first game. He showed better anticipation and immaculate stroke play to lead 11-7 at the break. He continued to dominate the proceedings with Shi hitting long, finding the nets. At 16-9, Srikanth had a service error as the shuttle went to the net.

But that didn’t affect his run as he continued to move ahead and reached the game point when the Chinese faltered with a net-stroke. The Indian seized the opportunity with a straight smash which left his opponent stranded.

Shi took early lead in the second game but Srikanth caught up at 2-2 and edged ahead with an onrushing return at the net. Srikanth’s brilliant net play helped him move to 7-6 with a backhand smash. Srikanth gained a three-point advantage at the interval with another attacking net play.

After the break, the Chinese tried to be more aggressive but Srikanth managed to reach 15-8. Shi grabbed three straight points but another rally ended with his shuttle going long as Srikanth moved to 16-11.

The Indian changed positions from the forecourt to the back to move to 19-13. Another stiff smash at the net and Srikanth had seven match points. He left one at the baseline but another jump crosscourt smash took him to the finals. — PTI