Sudirman Cup 2025: India Faces Tough Path in Group of Death

India faces a formidable challenge at the 2025 Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China, entering the tournament without its top doubles pairs due to injury and illness, which significantly reduces its medal prospects. The Indian squad, led by PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen—both currently struggling with form—will have to rely on emerging and scratch pairs in the doubles categories against strong group opponents Indonesia, Denmark, and England. Historically, India has never reached the podium at this prestigious mixed team event, with their best results being quarterfinal finishes in 2011 and 2017. The absence of established doubles teams such as Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty and Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand shifts responsibility to less experienced players, particularly in doubles matches. While this scenario presents a steep uphill battle, it also offers a chance to test India's bench strength on a global stage. Defending champions China remain dominant favorites, having opened the event with a commanding victory and aiming for their 14th title.