BWF Japan Masters: Sindhu, Lakshya look to rebuild momentum

Sindhu, Lakshya look to rebuild momentum

PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen will be aiming to rebuild momentum when they headline India’s challenge at the BWF Japan Masters Super 500 tournament, which is poised to explode on Tuesday. The duo will lead a 13-member Indian contingent in Tokyo this week, where they will be aiming to make a mark after a few early exits in recent tournaments.

Sindhu's recent form

Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist, has been in decent form this year, reaching the semifinals of the Malaysia Open and the Indonesia Masters. However, she suffered a first-round exit at the Thailand Open and a second-round exit at the India Open. The Japanese Masters will provide her with an opportunity to get back to winning ways and rediscover her best form.

Lakshya's recent form

Lakshya, on the other hand, recently reached the quarterfinals of the India Open but has otherwise struggled for consistency this year. The talented shuttler will be hoping to use the Japan Masters as a stepping stone to improve his ranking and secure a place in the top 10 of the world rankings.

Other Indian shuttlers to watch

Apart from Sindhu and Lakshya, other Indian shuttlers to watch out for at the Japan Masters include Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, and Sai Praneeth in the men's singles category. In the women's singles category, Saina Nehwal and Malvika Bansod will be looking to make an impression. The Indian mixed doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Ashwini Ponnappa will also be in action.

Tournament format and schedule

The BWF Japan Masters will be played from July 26 to 31 at the Musashino Forest Sports Plaza in Tokyo. The tournament will feature competitions in five categories: men's singles, women's singles, men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. The qualifying rounds will be held on July 26, while the main draw matches will begin on July 27.

Sindhu and Lakshya's hopes

Sindhu and Lakshya will be among the favorites to win their respective categories at the Japan Masters. Sindhu will be looking to add to her tally of Super 500 titles, while Lakshya will be aiming to win his first Super 500 title. Both players will be hoping to use the tournament as a springboard to success at the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.