India Falls Short Against Japan in Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships

India's mixed doubles pair Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto, alongside women's singles player Malvika Bansod, put up a valiant effort against Japan but couldn't prevent a 3-0 defeat in the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025. HS Prannoy's fightback was not enough to turn the tide.

In a bid to secure a semifinal berth at the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships 2025, India's rising stars Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto in mixed doubles, as well as Malvika Bansod in women's singles, showcased resilience against formidable Japanese opponents.

Dhruv and Tanisha faced the world-ranked No. 12 duo of Hiroki Midorikawa and Natsu Saito. Despite staging a comeback in the second game, they succumbed in a 61-minute contest, ultimately losing 21-13, 17-21, 21-13.

Women's singles player Malvika Bansod met the challenge of World No. 8 Tomoka Miyazaki but fell 21-12, 21-19. With India trailing, it was up to veteran HS Prannoy to keep hopes alive. Although he took the match to a decider, Prannoy's effort was in vain as Kenta Nishimoto won 14-21, 21-15, 12-21, sealing India's fate with a 3-0 defeat to Japan.

(With inputs from agencies.)