India Open: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty in final, HS Prannoy’s run ends

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, January 20

The showmen of Indian badminton Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty entered the final of the India Open Super 750 after another commanding display but it was curtains for HS Prannoy here today.

Egged on by the crowd’s chants of “India, India”, the world No. 2 pair ousted the Malaysian combination Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik with a 21-18 21-14 win.

This was a welcome relief for the thousands who had trooped into the KD Jadhav Hall of the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium after home favorite HS Prannoy had exited following a 15-21 5-21 defeat to China’s Shi Yu Qi.

Prannoy’s straight-game loss was littered with errors, especially in the second game.

The doubles match against the Malaysians was never going to be easy, given their exploits on the international circuit, which includes winning the 2022 World Championships and a bronze finish in 2023.

The Indians, though, came out all guns blazing and took an aggressive approach both at the net and backcourt.

Chirag was exceptional with his interceptions to set up the smash winners as they led early on.

However, the pedigreed Malaysians turned it around 11-10 at the interval but Satwiksairaj and Chirag kept raking in points at regular intervals after the restart and fended off their opponents to close the game 21-18.

It was the Malaysians who set the pace in the second game as they raced to 11-8 at the break. Just when it looked like the match was heading for the decider, the Indians hit back. Once again, the interceptions played a part. After a quick rally, the shuttle sat up for a kill. Chirag smashed it in Aaron’s face and a medical break was needed as he feared damage to his left eye.

After the injury, Aaron and his compatriot looked out of sorts. The Indians seized the momentum and racked up 11 of the last 12 points to win the game 21-14 much to the delight of crowd.

About The Author

Tribune News Service

The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.

#HS Prannoy