Team Blitz India
SYDNEY: India’s top ranked singles player HS Prannoy reached his maiden final in the Australian Open Super 500 tournament defeating Priyanshu Rajawat in straight games on August 5. Rajawat, the World No. 31 started the match with a spirited display but faded out as Prannoy grew into the game.
Prannoy, India’s hero in the historic Thomas Cup victory, defeated Rajawat in straight games 21-18, 21-12 to set up final against World No. 24, WengHongyang.
Rajawat had started the first game in style, rapidly attacking Prannoy, but was not able to hold his serve for long durations. Prannoy grew into the game with every break in point and slowed it down, forcing his opponent to come towards the net. Prannoy’s exceptional endurance came to the fore from the second half of the first game where he hit a couple of smashes into his opponent’s body.