India To Miss Lakshya Sen In Thomas Cup Semifinal Against France Due To Elbow Injury

India will be without key shuttler Lakshya Sen for their semifinal clash against France in the Thomas Cup after he suffered a swollen right elbow during the quarterfinals.

The 24-year-old played a crucial role in India’s campaign, producing a gritty comeback win over world No. 6 Chou Tien Chen, saving two match points to win 18-21, 22-20, 21-17 in a marathon contest lasting over 88 minutes. His effort helped India secure a commanding 3-0 victory over Chinese Taipei. However, Lakshya injured his elbow while diving for a shot and is also dealing with blisters , forcing him to sit out the semifinal.

Former coach Vimal Kumar confirmed that the player is still recovering. In his absence, youngster Ayush Shetty will take on world No. 4 Christo Popov in the opening singles.

Experienced Kidambi Srikanth will face world No. 10 Alex Lanier in the second singles, while HS Prannoy is set to meet world No. 17 Toma Junior Popov in the third. If required, the doubles combinations of Hariharan Amsakarunan–M. R. Arjun and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy–Chirag Shetty will be in action.

BAI secretary Sanjay Mishra said the team remains confident and termed the setback manageable, expressing hope that Lakshya could return if India reaches the final.

The Thomas Cup, first held in 1948–49 and now conducted biennially, has been staged 32 times , with India winning the title in 2022 . The tournament concludes with a formal medal and trophy ceremony , where the champions are honoured with the prestigious cup, while semifinalists are assured of bronze.

India have already secured a medal by entering the semifinals and will look to overcome France despite the absence of one of their top players.