Thomas Cup 2026: India loses semi-final; wins bronze – Highlights

HS Prannoy senses a comeback

Four in a row now from Prannoy as he lands a perfect smash to Popov's backhand side. 11-13 as the cheer squad continue to egg him on.

However, his run of points is broken by Popov with a smart deft touch. 11-14.

A mini fightback from Prannoy?

Three straight points for Prannoy now as Toma Junior Popov errs on backline judgement. 

The Indian has reduced the deficit to three points at 10-13. Is this a fightback?

Toma Junior Popov loses a challenge

Toma Junior Popov feels his shot has landed inside the sidelines and asks for a review. Replays shows that it has landed outside.

Prannoy trails 9-13.

Unlucky, Prannoy!

HS Prannoy wins the first point after the mid-game interval but then has a very unlucky moment.

His dribble from the frontcourt, hits the tip of the net and lands on his own side of the court. 

The doubles pairs warming up

The men's doubles 2 pair of Hariharan-Arjun and Adam-Rossi are warming up on the practice courts.

But will their services even be required tonight? I doubt. 

HS Prannoy TRAILS!

Seven of the last eight points in the name of Toma Junior Popov as he turns the tide.

The world No 17 has opened up a five-point advantage at 11-6 before the mid-game interval.

India, unfortuantely, look set for a bronze medal exit.

HS Prannoy trailing

This is very similar to the latter stages of the first games. The two shuttlers keep exchanging serves and points. 5-5.

But Toma Junior Popov has come up with two-straight point, the last of those with a good cross court smash to open up a 7-5 lead.

As I type it, he rushes on to the net and pushes the shuttle into Prannoy's body. The Indian is down 5-8 now.

Popov equalises!

A lovely smash from Toma Junior Popov and HS Prannoy fails to return it cleanly despite getting a decent connect. The Indian trails 2-3.

Popov then comes up with an even better down-the-line smash. Prannoy couldn't even get his racquet around this time. 3-3.

Prannoy with an early lead

Much like the opening game, HS Prannoy starts strong as Toma Junior Popov takes his time to settle in. Prannoy leads 3-1.

Now or never for India

HS Prannoy to receive from the near end to start the second game. It is now or never for India and for Prannoy. They are on the brink...