India’s men’s team kicked off their campaign at the Thomas Cup Finals 2026 with a commanding 4-1 victory over Canada in their opening Group Stage tie in Horsens, Denmark, on Friday.
Despite an early setback, the 2022 champions bounced back in style to take control of the tie and secure a comfortable win.
India were handed a tough start as Lakshya Sen went down in a three-game battle against Victor Lai. After taking the opening game 21-18, Sen lost momentum as the Canadian fought back to clinch the match 18-21, 21-19, 21-10.
However, India responded immediately through their star doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, who dominated Jonathan Lai and Kevin Lee 21-10, 21-11 to level the tie at 1-1.
Youngster Ayush Shetty then put India ahead with a clinical 21-13, 21-17 win over world No. 33 Brian Yang, giving the team a 2-1 lead.
India’s second doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and M. R. Arjun further strengthened the advantage, cruising to a 21-7, 21-15 victory over Ty Alexander Lindeman and Kevin Lee Yakura to make it 3-1.
With the tie already secured, veteran Kidambi Srikanth sealed the result with a solid 21-17, 21-12 win over Joshua Nguyen in the final rubber.
After losing the opening match, India showed composure and depth, winning four consecutive ties to wrap up the contest comfortably. The dominant performances in both doubles matches proved decisive in shifting momentum.
India will next face Australia on April 27 as they look to build on their winning start and strengthen their position in the group.
Meanwhile, the Indian women’s team is currently in action against Denmark in the Uber Cup.