New Delhi: Spearheaded by Olympic silver-medallist P.V. Sindhu, India face a tough challenge as they seek to end the wait for a medal at the Sudirman Cup mixed team championship beginning in Gold Coast, Australia, on Sunday.
India, ranked ninth, have reached the knockout stage of the tournament only once, in 2011, while in the last two editions they couldn’t even cross the group stage.
Led by Sindhu and world no.13 Ajay Jayaram, India have their task cut out this time when they take on Denmark and Indonesia in Group 1 D.
India open their campaign against two-time runners-up Denmark on Monday, and meet former champions and six-time runners-up Indonesia on Wednesday.
For India, the onus will be on the singles, while they would be hoping one of their doubles pair pull off at least one match.
London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal pulled out days ahead of the tournament but her absence should not affect India’s chances as world no.4 Sindhu is more than capable of handling the responsibility.
“I think we have a good chance, it’s a mixed team event so girls and boys both have to perform well. Saina isn’t playing, but that shouldn’t be an issue. I hope we can win,” a confident Sindhu said.
