Saina, Srikanth advance to second round at French Open

TIL Desk Sports/ Indian stars Kidambi Srikanth and Saina Nehwal entered the second round of the men’s and women’s singles categories respectively at the French Open badminton tournament here on Wednesday.

Srikanth defeated Wong Wing Ki Vincent of Hong Kong in straight games in his campaign opener. The Indian brushed off a tough challenge in the opening game to clinch a comprehensive 21-19, 21-13 verdict in 42 minutes. Srikanth will now face the winner of the first round clash between Khosit Phetpradab of Thailand and South Korea’s Lee Dong Keun.

Saina also had an easy outing in her first round clash. Currently placed at the 10th spot in the world rankings, Saina needed just 37 minutes to beat Saena Kawakami of Japan 21-11, 21-11. Saina will next take on the winner of the first round clash between Beatriz Corrales of Spain and Japan’s Nozomi Okuhara.