Malvika Bansod loses to Akane Yamaguchi in pre-quarters of All England Championships

NEW DELHI: The All England Championships women's singles campaign concluded for India as Malvika Bansod suffered a straight-game defeat against Japan's two-time world champion Akane Yamaguchi in the pre-quarterfinals in Birmingham on Thursday.
The world number 3 Yamaguchi dominated the match, defeating world number 28 Malvika 21-16 21-13 in a brief 33-minute encounter.
The Japanese champion maintained her perfect record against Malvika, leading their head-to-head encounters 4-0.
The previous day, Wednesday, witnessed two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu's elimination from the women's singles competition.
Malvika found it challenging to adapt to the playing conditions against Yamaguchi, frequently sending shots wide, long and into the net during the early stages.
Despite committing several unforced errors herself, Yamaguchi established control at the mid-game interval through a skilful drop shot and precise placement.
The Indian player remained competitive until 13-15, but Yamaguchi accelerated thereafter, securing multiple game points before claiming the first game as Malvika's shot went wide.
In the second game, the Japanese player took an early 3-1 advantage, though Malvika recovered to equalise at 5-5 and later 8-8. However, her erratic play resumed, allowing Yamaguchi to secure a substantial lead at the interval.
Following the break, Malvika offered minimal resistance as Yamaguchi advanced rapidly, earning eight match points. The Japanese player secured victory with a smash on her second attempt.