Qingdao witnessed high-stakes badminton action as India’s men’s squad edged out a resilient Singapore side to storm into the quarterfinals of the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) 2026. Kidambi Srikanth’s masterclass in the decider proved to be the game-changer in this Group C showdown at the Conson Gymnasium.
Lakshya Sen’s valiant effort wasn’t enough against Loh Kean Yew’s experience, with the Singaporean prevailing 21-16, 19-21, 21-16. The tide turned swiftly as the world-class pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty crushed their rivals 21-10, 21-8, leveling the tie. Ayyansh Shetty followed up with a solid 21-17, 21-15 triumph over Jia Heng Jason Teh, giving India the lead.
The second doubles brought heartbreak for Prithvi Roy and K Sai Prateek, who dominated the opener but succumbed 21-8, 21-23, 20-22, forcing a fifth rubber. Enter Srikanth, the seasoned campaigner, who dismantled Jia Wei Joel Koh 21-15, 21-15 with precision and power, ensuring India’s progression.
On the women’s front, the titleholders from India demolished Myanmar 5-0 in their Group Y opener, setting a commanding tone. They face Thailand next, a rematch loaded with intrigue from last year’s final.
As the gateway to the Thomas and Uber Cups in Denmark, this tournament underscores Asia’s fierce rivalry. India’s blend of youth and experience signals their intent to dominate.
