Rising Stars Shine Bright at the Badminton Junior National Championships

The Badminton Junior National Championships once again served as a powerful reminder of the depth, hunger, and emerging excellence in India’s youth badminton ecosystem.

Across categories, the country’s brightest young talents delivered high-quality performances that reflected strong technical discipline, competitive maturity, and an impressive ability to handle pressure on the national stage. The finals produced five champions each with a compelling story of resilience and sharp execution that underline the strength of India’s next generation.

Ansh Negi Claims Boys’ Singles Title After a Thrilling Fightback

In Boys’ Singles, Ansh Negi lived up to his top billing, overcoming a true test of temperament against second seed Suryaksha Rawat. The match stretched to three intense games, where Ansh opened with an 18–21 loss but showed remarkable composure thereafter. His tactical adjustment, especially his ability to extend rallies and draw errors, allowed him to take the next two games 22–20 and 21–11.

What stood out was his ability to absorb pressure in the second game, where Suryaksha threatened to close out the match. Ansh’s retrieval and late-game discipline ensured he forced a decider, where he completely dominated by accelerating the pace. This win is a significant addition to his fast-rising profile and positions him strongly for international junior circuits in the coming season.

The Girls’ Singles final witnessed Shaina Manimuthu putting up one of the most composed comeback victories of the competition. Facing ninth seed Tanoo Chandra, Shaina started slowly with a 17–21 opening-game loss but found her rhythm in time. She began controlling the pace with deeper returns and clever variations at the net.

Her 22–20 second-game win was the pivot saving match points and flipping momentum decisively. In the decider, she maintained complete control, clinching the crown 21–13. This win is a testament to her endurance and match IQ, as she managed to keep Tanoo constantly on the move, gradually wearing her down. With this victory, Shaina positions herself as one of the strongest prospects in the women’s junior circuit.

Lalramsanga & Sumith A.R. Deliver a Statement in Boys’ Doubles

In Boys’ Doubles, the combination of Lalramsanga and Sumith A.R., seeded third, produced a clinical performance to take home the title. Their 21–13, 21–12 win over Bhargav Ram Arigela and Viswa Tej Gobburu showcased their superior synergy and tactical clarity.

From the opening exchanges, the champions dictated the tempo with sharp mid-court interceptions and consistent pressure at the net. They rarely allowed their opponents to settle into any pattern of play. This confident straight-games victory reflects how effectively the pair has developed their roles Sumith’s control from the backcourt complementing Lalramsanga’s quick hands and anticipation near the front.

The Girls’ Doubles final saw top seeds Vennala K. and Reshika U. produce an authoritative 21–16, 21–9 win. Their ability to switch seamlessly between defense and attack proved too strong for Gayatri Rawat and Mansa Rawat. The pair’s consistency, communication, and court coverage ensured they stayed in control throughout. Their structured play and precise placements signal that they are ready for the next competitive leap at the junior international level.

Vansh Dev & Angel Punera Take Mixed Doubles Crown

In Mixed Doubles, the third-seeded team of Vansh Dev and Angel Punera clinched a tight, well-fought final against Bhavya Chhabra and Vishakha Toppo. The 22–20, 21–19 scoreline highlights the closeness of the contest, but Vansh and Angel held their nerve better during the crucial points. Their balanced approach Angel’s net instincts paired with Vansh’s strong baseline control proved decisive in the key moments of both games.

A Championship That Signals a Strong Future

With standout performances across all five categories, the Junior Nationals once again showcased India’s growing badminton pipeline. The champions Ansh, Shaina, Lalramsanga & Sumith, Vennala & Reshika, and Vansh & Angel represent a generation equipped with skill, discipline, and competitive temperament. As they prepare for bigger stages, these victories mark important milestones in what promises to be exciting careers ahead.