India’s campaign at the China Masters 2026 in Shenzhen delivered mixed results. Lakshya Sen was eliminated in the opening round, while Kidambi Srikanth and Assam’s Anmol Khargharia Chaliha advanced to the last 16.

Sen’s early exit is a setback for one of India’s leading men’s singles players. However, Srikanth’s progress and Chaliha’s notable victory have given the Indian contingent reason for optimism at the prestigious tournament.

Sen’s China Masters campaign ends early

Sen arrived at the China Masters 2026 hoping to make a deep run, but his challenge ended at the first hurdle. The result brought an unexpectedly early conclusion to the campaign of a player who has established himself as a prominent figure on the international circuit through performances at major tournaments.

The defeat also highlighted the fine margins that often decide matches on the World Tour. Against closely ranked and highly experienced opponents, a few points can change the course of a contest. Sen will now turn his attention to the next phase of the season and look to rebuild momentum after his brief stay in Shenzhen.

For India, Sen’s departure removes one of the most recognisable names from the men’s singles draw. His absence from the last 16 also places greater responsibility on the other Indian players still competing in the China Masters.

Srikanth keeps India’s hopes alive

Former world number one Kidambi Srikanth made a positive start to his campaign, winning his opening-round contest to reach the last 16. His progress is important for India’s overall challenge and represents a valuable opportunity for a player whose experience remains a major asset in the highly competitive men’s singles field.

Srikanth has been one of the central figures in India’s rise in international badminton over the past decade. He became the first Indian man to reach the top of the global singles rankings and has recorded notable victories over leading opponents throughout his career.

His next challenge will come in the knockout stages. Advancing beyond the opening round gives Srikanth a chance to build confidence, collect valuable ranking points and strengthen his competitive momentum. The last-16 contest will require consistency, physical resilience and composure under pressure.

Chaliha provides a boost for Assam

Anmol Khargharia Chaliha also booked a place in the last 16, adding another encouraging note to India’s campaign. The Assam shuttler’s progress is especially significant for the state, where badminton has continued to attract a growing following and produce athletes capable of competing on the international stage.

Chaliha’s run at the China Masters offers him an important opportunity to gain experience at a major event and test himself against some of the strongest players in the draw. Reaching the second round of a tournament of this stature can mark a valuable step in the development of a young or emerging player.

His performance will also be followed closely in Assam. A place in the last 16 is likely to generate fresh interest among aspiring players and local badminton supporters, adding another positive chapter to the state’s contribution to Indian sport.

Key highlights

• Lakshya Sen was eliminated in the opening round of the China Masters 2026 in Shenzhen.
• Kidambi Srikanth advanced to the men’s singles last 16.
• Assam’s Anmol Khargharia Chaliha also progressed to the last 16.
• Sen’s exit leaves Srikanth and Chaliha as India’s remaining men’s singles representatives at the reported stage of the draw.
• The results give India a mixed campaign, combining an early setback with progress from two experienced or emerging players.

As the China Masters 2026 moves into the last-16 stage, Srikanth and Chaliha will carry India’s hopes in the men’s singles draw. Their continued progress could help offset Sen’s early exit, while Chaliha’s run offers a particularly promising storyline for Assam.

Both players now have the chance to strengthen their standing, gain valuable experience and make a deeper impact in Shenzhen. The China Masters has already produced contrasting results for India; the next round will determine whether that momentum can develop into a longer run.