Day 2 of the Syed Modi International 2025 delivered a strong opening statement from the tournament’s top contenders, as leading seeds Unnati Hooda, Jason Teh, and former champion Kidambi Srikanth registered confident straight-games victories at the Babu Banarasi Das Indoor Stadium.
With the main draw settling into rhythm, the marquee names ensured there were no early surprises in Lucknow.
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In the women’s singles draw, top seed Unnati Hooda began her campaign with a sharp and controlled performance, defeating compatriot Aakarshi Kashyap 21-13, 21-18. Hooda, who has grown into one of India’s most consistent young performers on the BWF circuit, dictated the pace early. Her tight net play and ability to stretch rallies pushed Kashyap onto the defensive in the opening game.
The second game was more competitive, with Kashyap staying within touching distance. But Hooda’s improved shot selection in the closing phase allowed her to close out the match without letting the contest slip into a decider. For the top seed, it was the kind of assured opening win that sets the tone for a deep run in a tournament she has long targeted.
Jason Teh Survives Early Pressure, Moves Smoothly into Round of 16
In men’s singles, Singapore’s top seed Jason Teh produced a clinical performance to overcome India’s Rithvik Sanjeevi 21-19, 21-17. Teh was tested in patches, especially in the first game where Rithvik matched his pace and aggression. But the Singaporean’s composure in the final exchanges made the difference.
Teh’s ability to absorb pressure and convert half-chances around the midcourt helped him close out both games, avoiding the energy expenditure of a long three-game battle. With the draw opening up on his side, the top seed’s steady start will provide confidence as he eyes a semifinal berth in Lucknow.
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Former Syed Modi champion Kidambi Srikanth began his 2025 campaign with a crisp 21-13, 21-10 win over compatriot Kavin Thangam, showcasing the fluency that has defined some of his best performances at this event. Srikanth controlled the shuttle beautifully, using his forehand accuracy and quick interceptions at the net to maintain momentum throughout.
The veteran’s ability to close out points early and limit extended exchanges highlighted a clear intent: Srikanth is targeting another deep run in a venue where he has historically performed well. With early rounds now behind him, he heads into the next stage with rhythm and confidence.
Strong Starts for Rakshitha Sree and Kiran George
Seventh seed Rakshitha Sree Santhosh Ramraj delivered one of the most composed performances of the day in women’s singles, defeating Shreya Lele 21-12, 21-14. Her court coverage and clean striking ensured she remained in full control, never allowing Shreya to build sustained pressure.
In men’s singles, Kiran George kept India’s momentum going with a 21-17, 21-9 win over Israel’s Daniil Dubovenko. After a competitive first game, Kiran shifted gears decisively in the second, using his speed and steep attacking play to race through the final phase of the match.
Mixed Doubles: Top Seeds Advance; Junior Talents Impress
Mixed doubles top seeds Terry Hee and Jin Yujia of Singapore opened their campaign with a 23-21, 21-10 win over India’s Ayush Makhija and Simran Singhi. The Indian pair pushed hard in the opening game, but the Singaporeans’ experience and superior rotation helped them secure control in the second.
In an all-India battle featuring World Junior medallists, C Lalramsanga and Taarini Suri edged out Bhavya Chhabra and Vishakha Toppo 25-23, 21-14. The closeness of the opening game highlighted the promise of both young pairs, but Lalramsanga and Suri held their nerve in the critical points.
Rawat Sisters Add to India’s Success
In women’s doubles, rising siblings Gayatri and Mansa Rawat continued India’s strong showing with a 21-11, 21-18 victory over Arathi Sunil and Varshini Viswanath. The Rawat sisters displayed excellent coordination, with Gayatri’s net control and Mansa’s backcourt power proving decisive.
