India Dominates UAE in BWF World Junior Mixed Team Championships

India's Strong Performance Ahead of Quarterfinals

Guwahati (Assam) [India], October 8: India showcased an impressive performance as they prepared for the quarterfinals of the Yonex-Sunrise BWF World Junior Mixed Team Championships 2025, defeating the UAE in straight sets. Meanwhile, the USA pulled off a surprise victory against France, and Japan triumphed over top-seeded Thailand at the National Centre of Excellence on Wednesday.

India secured a convincing win against the UAE with scores of 45-37 and 45-34. Japan also excelled, overcoming Thailand with scores of 45-42 and 45-34 in Group A. The USA advanced to the quarterfinals after narrowly defeating France 45-43 in both sets in Group B. Other teams that topped their groups included China in Group D and Indonesia in Group F, as reported by the BFI.

Seeded second, India had previously triumphed over Nepal and Sri Lanka in their Group H matches, entering the final round as the only unbeaten team. This confidence was evident in their match against the UAE, which featured players with experience in the Indian domestic circuit.

Tanvi Sharma, a finalist at the USA Open, kicked off the match with a victory over reigning Indian junior national champion Prakriti Bharath, scoring 9-5. The mixed doubles pair of C Lalramsanga and Vishakha Toppo then extended the lead to 18-10 against Adithya Kiran and Sakshi Kurbkhelgi.

Despite a strong effort from the UAE in the boys' singles and doubles, with Bharath Lateesh scoring 9 points against Hmar Lalthazuala and later teaming up with Riyan Malhan to score 10 points against Bhagav Ram Arigela and Viswa Tej Gobburu, it wasn't enough to close the gap.

In the second set, Unnati Hooda replaced Tanvi, and Suryansh Rawat took Hmar's place. Unnati began with a 9-6 win over Prakriti, setting the tone for the Indian team's continued success.

On the adjacent court, Japan took an early lead against Thailand, with Yuzuno Watanabe defeating Anyapat Phichitpreechasak 9-5 in the first girls' singles match, helping Japan secure the first set 45-42.

Watanabe further solidified her team's advantage in the second set, winning 9-2 against Yataweemin Ketklieng, allowing Japan to finish at the top of Group A with a dominant performance.

Team USA celebrated a significant victory as they overcame a tough challenge from the 5/8 seeds, France. In a closely contested match, USA's Garret Tan maintained his composure, winning the first set 9-8 against France's Mady Sow and quickly scoring nine points under pressure in the second set, leading his team to top Group B.

Looking ahead, the USA will face Japan in the quarterfinals, while India awaits to determine their opponent based on the outcome of Group G.