Thomus Cup: India win medal in Badminton after 43 years
History was made in Indian Badminton on Thursday as the Indian men's badminton team defeated Malaysia 3-2 at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, to reach their first Thomas Cup semi-final in 43 years.
Since 1979, India, which has not won a medal, are now guaranteed of at least a bronze. India won three bronze medals in the event in the past by reaching the inter-zonal finals in 1952, 1955, and 1979, however this is the first time they have won a medal at Thomas Cup since the qualification process was changed.
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As the Indian men's team went onto the court to celebrate their historic victory, HS Prannnoy defeated Leong Jun Hao in straight games. When the game was deadlocked at 2-2 before the final singles match, Prannoy was pumped up as he kept his cool and delivered huge for the team.
HS Prannoy also said that, “Chirag and Satwik were not in great shape yesterday but played amazingly today. Just goes to show how team events are played when each and every one steps up when opportunities come.”
Until Thursday, India had never won or thought of winning at the Thomus Cup, even women won bronze medal in Uber Cup.
India's semi-final qualification in Thomas Cup came just hours after PV Sindhu-led side bowed out of the ongoing Uber Cup after facing a 0-3 loss against Thailand.
India will play Denmark, who beat South Korea 3-2, on Friday for a place in Sunday’s final at Bangkok’s Impact Arena. Holders Indonesia will face Japan in the other semi-final.
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Expectations were high from India’s highest ranked shuttler Lakshya Sen but the 20-year-old lost the opening singles rubber 21-23, 9-21 in 46 minutes to reigning Asian champion Lee Zii Jia. This was the All-England finalist’s first defeat to the world No. 6 in three outings.
-PTC News
