Thailand GPG: Sai Praneeth claims a spot in finals while Saina ends her campaign

THE SEMI-FINAL match between Sai Praneeth and Pannawit Thongnuam got over in just 36 minutes. It looked like the Indian was in a hurry to finish things and seal his spot in the finals.

It was a straight game victory for the third seed, 21-11, 21-15. Out of these two games, the quickest was the first one. As after the interval, Praneeth won series of points instantly giving him the edge over his opponent.

The start of the second game saw close contest as Pannawit knew he had just this one chance to stay alive in the match. At the interval, the point difference was just one and the Indian was in lead. But post that, once again a repeat of what happened in the first game. Some great shots and Praneeth saw himself sitting in a comfortable position and indeed it was. He won the second game too within a blink of an eye.

In the finals, 4th seed Indonesian Jonatan Christie awaits Praneeth. The final of Thailand GPG will be their first encounter against each other.

Meanwhile, the women's singles contest between Saina Nehwal and Busanan Ongbamrungphan was closely fought contest. The 4th seed Thai shuttler got the best out of Saina, winning the match in straight games 21-19, 21-18.

It may have been a straight game victory for the Thai, but not that easy. Busanan looked in great shape and control of the match from the beginning but certain shots and amazing smashes also kept Saina in the match.

After losing the opening game, Saina looked much better at the start of the second. But Busanan was determined to go ahead to the finals. She didn't let Saina get back instead capitalised on her shots and won the match.

It is an all Thai finals in the women's singles category as Busanan takes on top seed Intanon.

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