Praneeth 1 Internet Desk: India's B Sai Praneeth advanced to the finals of $120000 Thailand Grand Prix Gold badminton tournament but Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal's campaign ended in the semi-final of the on Saturday. Praneeth swiftly defeated Pannawit Thongnuam of Thailand 21-11, 21-15 in the men's singles semi-final that went on for 36 minutes. Praneeth is currently ranked 24th in the world. The game which lasted for 36 minutes saw the London Olympic bronze medallist Saina losing in straight games to Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan 19-21, 18-21. While Saina’s rival entered the tournament as fourth seed, the world number 11 was seeded second in the tournament. The third seeded Praneeth will play against 19-year old Indonesian Jonatan Christie, who defeated Joo Ven Soong of Malaysia 21-9, 21-18 in his 34-minute semi-final clash. In Saturday's match, Praneeth started strong and went into the first break with a four-point lead, paving the way for an effortless victory in the first game. The Thai tried to stage a fightback in the second game but Singapore Open Champion was equal to the task, quickly reducing a three-point deficit. Thongnuam made Praneeth work hard for his points, but the Indian had the last laugh.

B Sai Praneeth cruises into Thailand Open final, Saina Nehwal loses in the semis