India’s top-ranked men’s doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, made an early departure from the All England Open on Wednesday, beaten by
Malaysia’s Aaron Tai and Khai Xing Kang at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham.
The world No. 4 pair went down 23-21, 21-12 to the 33rd-ranked Malaysian combination, a result that will come as a major blow to India’s hopes at one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
Promising Start Gives Way to Malaysian Dominance
Satwik and Chirag began the contest with real intent. They moved swiftly into an 11-6 advantage at the mid-game interval of the opening set, looking well in control of proceedings.
The Malaysian pair, however, refused to wilt. Tai and Kang clawed their way back into the contest and levelled matters at 16-all, shifting the momentum firmly in their favour. The former junior world champions then seized the initiative, nudging ahead and putting the Indian duo under considerable pressure.
Satwik and Chirag fought hard to stay in the contest and managed to save two game points before eventually surrendering the opener in a tense finish. It was a collapse that proved difficult to recover from.
Second Game a One-Sided Affair
The second game told a very different story. Tai and Kang carried their momentum into the new set and never looked back. They held a commanding 11-7 lead at the interval and continued to dominate thereafter, conceding just five more points on their way to wrapping up the match.
It was a comprehensive victory for the Malaysian pair and a chastening afternoon for the Indian combination, who will be left to reflect on how a strong opening position unravelled so quickly.
Lakshya Sen Provides Bright Spot for India
Despite Satwik and Chirag’s exit bringing India’s men’s doubles campaign to a close, there was a moment of cheer on the opening day. Lakshya Sen produced a stunning upset, defeating world No. 1 Shi Yuqi of China to advance to the second round.
Sen will next face Hong Kong China’s Angus Ng Ka Long in the pre-quarterfinals on Thursday, giving Indian fans something to look forward to after a disappointing day in the doubles draw.
