India have their task cut out

India open their campaign against two-time runners-up Denmark on Monday, and meet former champions and six-time runners-up Indonesia on Wednesday. 

India, ranked ninth, have reached the knockout stage of the tournament only once, in 2011, while in the last two editions they couldn’t even cross the group stage.

Led by Sindhu and world no.13 Ajay Jayaram, India have their task cut out this time when they take on Denmark and Indonesia in Group 1 D. 

For India, the onus will be on the singles, while they would be hoping one of their doubles pair pull off at least one match. 

London Olympics bronze medallist Saina Nehwal pulled out days ahead of the tournament but her absence should not affect India’s chances as world no.4 Sindhu is more than capable of handling the responsibility.