LIVE China Open | Round 2
India advanced to the second round of the China Open with some cuts and bruises as the likes of Saina Nehwal and two doubles pairs were eliminated on the first day itself. However, PV Sindhu and B Sai Praneeth have all advances promising a cracking day for badminton fans on Thursday.
The day is starting with a mouthwatering clash between Swastiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, who would be up against Japanese World No. 4 Takeshi Kamura and Keigo Sonada. The Indian duo has shown dynamism and a brings a surprising element to the match but the Japanese stars have enjoyed a 3-0 edge in head to head against them.
The mixed doubles duo of Rankireddy and Ashwini Ponnap would be taking on Yuki Kaneko and Misaki Matsumoto, and the fact that they meet each other for the first time makes for a fresh perspective.
PV Sindhu would be taking on Pornpawee Chochuwong and the Indian shuttler would be having a clear edge over the Thai shuttler based on her experience and skill set. B Sai Praneeth would be taking on China’s Lu Guang Zu in the second round. The Indian would be looking for revenge after having previously lost to the Chinese.
The women’s doubles would also see Ponnappa and N Sikki Reddy taking on Japan’s Misaki Matsumoto and Ayaka Takahashi.