Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty star as India crush Chinese Taipei to reach semis

India delivered a clinical and commanding performance to defeat Chinese Taipei 3-0 in the quarterfinals on Friday, May 1, advancing to the semifinals of the Thomas Cup 2026. Lakshya Sen, the doubles duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, along with Ayush Shetty, delivered standout performances to secure India’s place in the top four.

Lakshya Sen set the tone in the opening singles clash against Chou Tien-chen, registering a hard-fought 18-21, 22-20, 21-17 victory after coming back from a game down. Rising to the occasion once again, Sen showcased his ability to absorb pressure and deliver in crunch moments.

Sen and Chou entered the



match with a 4–4 head-to-head record, and the contest lived up to expectations, turning into a topsy-turvy battle. Both players overturned significant deficits in the first two games to force a decider. While Chou fought back from 10-15 down to take the opening game, Sen responded by recovering from 14-17 in the second and saving two match points to stay alive.

The momentum swung repeatedly, but Sen held his nerve in the decider, maintaining a slender lead with aggressive, controlled attacking play. The two-time All England finalist ensured he stayed ahead in the crucial stages, eventually sealing the match and handing India a vital 1–0 lead in the tie.