Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian men’s badminton team created history by securing their first-ever Thomas Cup crown beating Indonesia in the final at Bangkok on Sunday. Kidambi Srikanth, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty and Lakshya Sen won their matches as India blanked 14-time champions Indonesia 3-0 in the final.
It was a tremendous achievement by the Indian men’s badminton team. They have been in stupendous form throughout the tournament, beating the likes of Malaysia in Quarter Final, Denmark in Semi Final and now Indonesia in the final.
Congratulatory messages started pouring in as PM Narendra Modi, Virat Kohli, Sunil Chhetri, and others lauded the incredible achievement of the Indian men’s team.
PM Narendra Modi tweeted, “The Indian badminton team has scripted history! The entire nation is elated by India winning the Thomas Cup! Congratulations to our accomplished team and best wishes to them for their future endeavors. This win will motivate so many upcoming sportspersons.”
Union sports minister Anurag Thakur announced a cash award of Rs 1 crore for the winners of the Thomas Cup. He said that India are relaxing the rules due to this historical achievement.
Lakshya Sen gave India the lead in the final, coming back after a game down to win his singles match 8-21, 21-17, 21-16 against Anthony Ginting. Satwiksairaj Rankireddey and Chirag Shetty came from a game down too to beat Mohammad Ahsan and Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo 18-21, 23-21, 21-19. Kidambi Srikanth defeated Jonatan Christie in straight games 21-15, 23-21 as India sealed the title without losing a match.