India suffered a body blow ahead of their Thomas Cup semifinal against France. Star player Lakshya Sen has been ruled out of the game to be played in Horsens, Denmark, on Saturday.
The 2022 champions had defeated a strong Taipei outfit 3-0 in the men’s quarterfinals and Lakshya had played an important role. World no. 6 Lakshya Sen gave India the winning start as he defeated Chou Tien Chen 18-21, 22-20, 21-17 in an hour and 28 minutes.
However, Lakshya’s effort on the court seems to have taken a toll on his body as he sustain an elbow injury. The two-time All England finalist is ruled out of the semifinal game against France.
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“Our men’s singles player, Lakshya Sen, will not be participating in today’s semi-final tie against France in the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026. Lakshya sustained an impact to his elbow following an intense quarterfinal match that involved multiple dives,” says a Badminton Association of India (BAI) release issued by secretary Sanjay Mishra.
“Following a thorough evaluation by the team’s medical staff, the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to allow Lakshya adequate recovery time and ensure he is in optimal condition for the final, should India progress.
“He is currently under close medical observation and receiving all necessary support. The team remains confident and optimistic about his swift recovery and return to peak form,” says the release.
With Lakshya ruled out of the semifinal, the pressure on the other Indians to deliver against a charged up France, who made it to their maiden Thomas Cup semifinal at the cost of Japan, will be immense. World No. 30 Kidambi Srikanth will compete in his absence.
