By Our Special Correspondent
Indian women's badminton team sailed into the knockout stage of the Uber Cup Final after humbling USA 4-1 in a lopsided Group D match here on Tuesday. India, who had defeated Canada 4-1 in their opening tie, notched up a second successive win to cement their position in the top two spot in their group to qualify for the quarterfinals. Double Olympic medalist PV Sindhu got the ball rolling for India, beating the 95th ranked Jennie Gai 21-10, 21-11 in the first singles clash. The Indian shutter dominated the match right from the beginning and raced to 16-4 lead in the first game. There was no looking back from there on for Sindhu as the world No. 7 sealed off the contest with ease in 26 minutes. In the final match, Ashmita Chaliha prevailed 21-18, 21-13 over Natalie Chi to wrap up the match.
However, youngster Ashmita Chaliha completed the 4-1 score line for India after accounting for Natalie Chi 21-18, 21-13 in the final rubber of the day.
The victory on Tuesday, coupled with their 4-1 win over Canada on Sunday, ensured India a top-two finish along with South Korea in the Uber Cup Group D and in extension, a berth in the top-eight. India and Korea will meet on Wednesday to settle the group winners.
Notably, both the Indian men's and women's teams were ousted in the quarterfinals of the Thomas and Uber Cup 2020 held last year.
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