Amit Mishra web ST

Picture Credit: Twitter

The Indian men’s team scripted history as they defeated Indonesia to win their first Thomas Cup in history. India registered a 3-0 win as Lakshya Sen started the final by defeating Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 8-21, 21-17, 21-16; followed by Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty beating Mohammad Ahsan and Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo 18-21, 23-21, 21-19. 

Then Kidambi Srikanth took down Jonathan Christie 21-15, 23-21 to seal the victory. The entire Indian contingent was showered on with love and praise as top politicians and even the Prime Minister shared this historic triumph. 

But a compliment by a bureaucrat stuck out like a sore thumb, IAS officer Somesh Upadhyay jokingly shared a picture of a mosquito racquet and tweeted, “Indonesian are surprised how Indians got better at badminton than them.” This response wasn’t liked by former India leg spinner Amit Mishra who deemed the tweet ‘distasteful’ and  ‘insulting’. Mishra tweeted, “This is not only distasteful but also insulting the achievement of our badminton heroes.”

“I know that the next generation is in safe hands,” Srikanth

Reacting to the triumph, Srikanth wrote a heartfelt message on his social media platforms. He talked about how the win was a team effort as everyone came together for generating mental fortitude. He also thanked the authorities for choosing him as captain and also assured the fans that the future of Indian badminton is in safe hands. 

He shared, “I don't know where to begin this. The journey to this podium is nothing short of once in a lifetime experience. This has been the result of pure mental strength and resilience. As a sportsperson, I have seen more losses than wins but this will remain closest to my heart because of the team and my boys.”

“They bestowed upon me a great honour and chose me as their captain but I must say I learnt more than I lead this team. I know that the next generation is in safe hands and leadership like we are. I am immensely blessed and humbled to be on a prestigious podium that an Indian never stood on before. This may have been the first but I assure you it won't be the last.”