Malvika Bansod's run ends at China Open

NAGPUR: Malvika Bansod's remarkable journey in the China Open Super 1000 badminton tournament ended in the quarterfinals. The promising Nagpur shuttler went down against two-time world champion Akane Yamaguchi on Friday.Despite Malvika's positive start against Japan's fourth seeded opponent, the 43rd ranked Indian struggled to maintain her momentum after the world No.5 Japanesereeled off six consecutive points midway through the first game. Malvika ultimately lost the first game 10-21.Undeterred, Malvika exhibited tremendous grit and determination in the second game, engaging in a fierce battle that saw her making a late comeback with four straight points and bringing the scores close at 15-19. However, the seasoned Yamaguchi demonstrated her tactical acumen, varying her strokes to turn the tide in her favour and clinching the game 21-16.Yamaguchi sealed the victory in a mere 35 minutes, bringing the Indian challenge in this season-ending tournament to a close.Despite the loss, Malvika's debut at the BWF Super 1000 tournament was a memorable one.