New Delhi, 3 May — Former chief coach Vimal Kumar attributed India's 3-0 defeat to France in the Thomas Cup semifinal partly to the absence of star shuttler Lakshya Sen, who was sidelined by an elbow injury sustained during the quarterfinal against Chinese Taipei. Kumar also praised France for their clinical performance, which propelled them to their maiden Thomas Cup final.

Impact of Lakshya Sen's injury

Paris 2024 Olympic semifinalist Lakshya Sen was forced to sit out the semifinal tie after suffering an impact injury to his elbow during the quarterfinal clash on Friday. Vimal Kumar noted that the 2024 Paris Olympics semifinalist's unavailability proved costly at pivotal moments in the match. "France completely overwhelmed India today, and Lakshya's absence was certainly felt at crucial moments," Kumar said on X.

France's dominant singles display

France replicated their clinical approach from the quarterfinal against Japan, with their top three singles players delivering decisive victories. Christo Popov defeated in-form Ayush Shetty, whose aggressive attacking game had been central to India's campaign. Alex Lanier then overcame experienced campaigner Kidambi Srikanth, followed by Toma Junior Popov's victory over HS Prannoy in the third singles match. India's vaunted doubles combination could not compensate for the singles losses.

France's rapid ascent in badminton

Kumar highlighted France's emergence as a competitive badminton force. "This result also highlights just how much France has grown as a badminton nation—they're progressing rapidly and competing with real authority at the highest level," he remarked. Popov, in particular, has emerged as a standout performer, having won the year-end Finals last season and delivered dominant displays, including a convincing victory over Jonatan Christie of Indonesia.

France's path to the final

France will face China in the final, with the latter seeking their 12th Thomas Cup title. Kumar expressed confidence in France's chances, stating: "Looking ahead, they will carry strong belief into the final, especially if it's against China. With the form they're in, they have every chance of making it a closely fought contest."

India's road ahead

For 2022 Thomas Cup champions India, Kumar emphasised the need for regrouping and recovery. "For India, this is a moment to regroup and come back stronger. The potential in this team is unquestionable," he concluded, signalling that the loss, while significant, does not diminish the squad's long-term prospects.