Rio 2016: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth keep India’s medal hopes alive

Indian ace shuttler PV Sindhu progressed through to the round of 16 with a resilient win over Canadian rival Michelle Li in her second and final women’s singles group stage contest here at the Rio Olympics on Sunday.

Indian ace shuttler PV Sindhu progressed through to the round of 16 with a resilient win over Canadian rival Michelle Li in her second and final women’s singles group stage contest here at the Rio Olympics on Sunday.

India's badminton player P V Sindhu plays during the Women's Single match at the Summer Olympic 2016. (PTI Photo)

Sindhu maintained her composure despite losing the opening game as she went on to claim a resounding 19-21, 21-15, 21-17 victory over the Canadian opponent in a dramatic contest that lasted one hour and 12 minutes.

Sindhu, the two-time bronze medallist at the World Championship, remains the lone Indian female shuttler in fray in singles following the exit of Saina Nehwal from the prestigious event in a stunning upset earlier in the day.

On the other hand, Kidambi Srikanth progressed through to the round of 16 with a crushing straight games win over Sweden’s Henri Hurskainen in the men’s singles event.

The Indian world number 11 claimed a 21-6, 21-18 win over the Swedish rival in a contest that lasted over half-an-hour at Riocentro-Pavilion 4. He will next play his pre-quarterfinal round on Monday.

India, which have sent their largest-ever contingent of 119 athletes in Rio Olympics, are yet to open their medal account in the ongoing Summer Games.