BWF World Championships: Lakshya Sen roars back after early scare, storms into round of 32

In a series of big events, star Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen overcame a first-game setback to secure a strong three-game win over Austria's Collins Valentine Filimon in the Round of 64 at the ongoing BWF World Championships. The 2021 bronze medalist needed just 45 minutes to secure a 16-21, 21-8, 21-4 in front of the home crowd.

Strong display from Lakshya Sen

Filimon caught the Indian star with surprise in the opening game, taking advantage of early errors to get a comfortable cushion. The Austrian star controlled the high-paced rallies and dictated the tempo, eventually taking the first set 21-16 in just 15 minutes to put the local favorite on the back foot.

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After getting some tactical advice, Sen adjusted his playing style in the second game. He increased his speed, improved his shot-making and pulled away to an 11-8 lead before systematically breaking down Filimon's defense to level the clash with a convincing 21-8 game win.

The third and final set to be a one-sided affair as Sen stamped his authority right from the start. Racing to an insurmountable 11-1 lead at the interval, the Indian allowed Filimon just three points, cruising to a 21-4 finish to seal his berth in the Round of 32.

India suffer defeats in mixed doubles

India endured a tough outing in the mixed doubles on Day 2, with two pairs making exits. Rohan Kapoor and Ruthvika Shivani went down to Canada's Jonathan Lai and Crystal Lai following a closely contested three-game battle, losing 22-20, 19-21, 17-21. Asith Surya and Amrutha Prmuthesh were also engaged in a close clash but suffered a narrow 21-16, 29-30, 22-24 defeat against their Turkish opponents, bringing their campaign to an end in the opening round.

With both mixed doubles pairs knocked out, India's attention will now turn towards Lakshya Sen, who is set to kick off his campaign in the World Championships on the evening of August 18 and will look to make a strong start.