India’s campaign at the Orleans Masters Super 300 began with a blend of high-intensity domestic clashes and promising performances in the women’s draw, setting the tone for an eventful opening day in France.
In a headline all-Indian men’s singles encounter, Ayush Shetty came out on top against Kiran George in a hard-fought three-game battle. Shetty, currently India’s second-highest ranked men’s singles shuttler, showed resilience after dropping the opening game to secure a 17-21, 21-10, 21-17 victory in 49 minutes and progress to the next round.
On the women’s side, Malvika Bansod delivered a composed performance to defeat Sung Shou Yun of Chinese Taipei 21-18, 21-14, booking her place in the second round. Isharani Baruah also impressed, overcoming Denmark’s Amalie Schulz in straight games, winning 21-19, 21-19 to advance.
One of the standout moments of the day came from rising star Tanvi Sharma, who continued her upward trajectory on the international circuit. Facing second seed Supanida Katethong of Thailand, Sharma was leading 21-18, 14-12 when her opponent was forced to retire, handing the Indian youngster a place in the second round.
India’s success extended further, with Anmol Kharb cruising into the Round of 16 in women’s singles with a straight-games win. The mixed doubles pair of Rohan Kapoor and Ruthvika Gadde also advanced comfortably, strengthening India’s presence across categories.
However, it was not all smooth sailing for the Indian contingent. Veteran Kidambi Srikanth suffered an early exit in men’s singles, while Aakarshi Kashyap bowed out in the women’s singles opening round. Similar disappointments followed for Rakshita Ramraj, Devika Sihag, and the mixed doubles duo of Tanisha Crasto and Dhruv Kapila, all of whom saw their campaigns end prematurely.
Attention will now turn to Tharun Mannepalli, who is set to take on Wang Tzu Wei of Chinese Taipei later in the day in his opening match.
With a mix of emerging talent stepping up and experienced names falling short, India’s campaign at the Orleans Masters has already delivered both promise and unpredictability in equal measure.
