Ningbo (China), 07 April (H.S.):

In the Badminton Asia Championships 2026, India's mixed doubles duo of Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto delivered a stellar performance to keep the nation's medal hopes alive, while the other two Indian pairs exited in the opening round.

The Indian pair overcame Thailand's Phuwanat Horbanluekit and Benyapa Aimsaard in a thrilling three-game encounter, winning 21-14, 11-21, 21-15 over 51 minutes with composed defence and aggressive play.

In another match, Rohan Kapoor and Gadde Ruthvika Shivani fell to Malaysia's eighth seeds Goh Soon Huat and Lai Shevon Jamie 13-21, 19-21 in 34 minutes. The Indians mounted a strong comeback in the second game but couldn't overcome the experienced Malaysians.

Additionally, Ashit Surya and Amruta Pramudesh crashed out early, losing 16-21, 15-21 to Malaysia's Wong Tian Ci and Lim Chuu Sien in 31 minutes despite a spirited effort, faltering at crucial junctures.

Singles action begins Wednesday, featuring India's stars PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar