Team India advanced to the quarterfinals of the Badminton Asia Junior Mixed Team Championships by defeating Kazakhstan 2-0 (55-31, 55-21) in their Group C opener in Yatsushiro, Japan. In the crucial upcoming match against Chinese Taipei to determine the group winner, India showcased versatility by altering their doubles lineup. Durga Esha Kandrapu and Keerthy Manchala initiated a strong start for India with an 11-5 victory in girls’ doubles against Alissa Kuleshova and Diana Namenova.
Puneeth Suresh and Deepti Raj Aditi faced a tough challenge from Mustafa Malikzhan and Kuleshova but managed to secure an 11-10 win, extending India’s lead to 22-15. Following this, the Indian team dominated the subsequent categories to claim the first set. The second set proved to be a comfortable win as no player allowed their opponents to score more than six points in any match.
India, placed in Group C alongside Chinese Taipei, Kazakhstan, and the Philippines, is in contention for the mixed team gold medal. The tournament features a relay format where the first team to reach 110 points wins the tie. India, the previous bronze medalists, commenced their journey in the group stages and will progress to the quarterfinals, followed by knockout matches leading to the finals. The Indian squad for the 2026 Badminton Asia Junior Championships in Yatsushiro includes Tanvi Patri and Abhinav Garg, who are set to play from June 26 to July 5.
