New Delhi: The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has unveiled the men’s and women’s teams for the upcoming BWF Thomas and Uber Cup Finals 2024, set to take place in Chengdu, China from April 27 to May 5. Ace shuttler H.S. Prannoy and promising youngster Anmol Kharb are set to lead India’s charge in the prestigious tournament.
The senior selection committee, comprising eminent figures including chief national coach Pullela Gopichand and former stars such as Jwala Gutta and U. Vimal Kumar, has meticulously crafted a squad blending seasoned campaigners with emerging talents to ensure a formidable challenge at the event.
The men’s team for the Thomas Cup boasts a formidable lineup, featuring H.S. Prannoy, Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, Priyanshu Rajawat, and Kiran George in singles, while the doubles contingent comprises world No.1 pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, along with M.R. Arjun, Dhruv Kapila, and Sai Pratheek.
Reflecting on the team selection, BAI General Secretary Sanjay Mishra expressed confidence in the chosen lineup, emphasizing the importance of balance and depth to defend the Thomas Cup title. Mishra highlighted the inclusion of an additional singles player and Sai Pratheek as a backup doubles player, underscoring the strategic foresight of the selection committee.
In the Uber Cup category, India’s squad features rising talents such as Anmol Kharb, Tanvi Sharma, Ashmita Chaliha, and Isharani Baruah in singles, while the doubles unit comprises Shruti Mishra, Priya Konjengbam, Simran Singhi, and Ritika Thaker.
While notable stars like P.V. Sindhu and top doubles pairs have opted out due to Olympic preparations and scheduling constraints, BAI remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasizing the potential of young talents to make a mark on the global stage.