India’s badminton squads are set for a crucial campaign at the BWF Thomas and Uber Cup starting Friday, with the men aiming to recreate past glory and the women preparing for a challenging outing against top opposition.
The Indian men’s team, buoyed by a settled core and the emergence of Ayush Shetty, will begin its campaign against Canada before facing Australia and powerhouse China in Group A. Confidence remains high, especially given India’s historic triumph four years ago, when they stunned the badminton world by lifting the Thomas Cup title.
That memorable run saw Kidambi Srikanth and H.S. Prannoy lead from the front, while the doubles duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty proved decisive. Though the title defence ended in the quarterfinals against China two years later, the core group remains intact heading into 2026.
Fresh optimism surrounds the squad thanks to recent performances. Ayush recently reached the final of the Badminton Asia Championships — a first for an Indian in over six decades — while Lakshya Sen finished runner-up at the All England Championships. Both players have shown the ability to challenge elite opponents, raising hopes of a strong singles showing.
The return of Satwik and Chirag from injury further strengthens India’s prospects in doubles. However, concerns linger over the form of Srikanth and Prannoy, who have struggled with consistency and fitness issues in recent times.
India is expected to progress from the group stage, though it may face stiff resistance from Canada and defending champion China. Despite China’s pedigree, its aura of invincibility has waned, and India will back itself to compete strongly in the knockout rounds.
Meanwhile, the Indian women’s team faces a far tougher road in the Uber Cup. Led by P.V. Sindhu, the squad will take on Denmark, Ukraine, and China in a demanding group.
India, a bronze medallist in past editions, will miss the services of key doubles pair Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly, the latter sidelined due to injury. A young lineup featuring players like Tanvi Sharma, Devika Sihag, and Unnati Hooda will need to step up against experienced rivals.
Sindhu’s performance in the singles will be critical, though she has struggled for consistency this season. With a blend of youth and experience, the women’s team will aim to exceed expectations, even as the odds remain stacked against them.
