Can the Chirag smash compensate for Satwik?
Coach Uday Pawar candidly discussed the escalating responsibility on Chirag Shetty's shoulders amid Satwiksairaj Rankireddy's declining form. Pawar recalled, "I told him, Jab tera game baraabar nai chaltaa tha, Satwik terko carry kiya." Now, Chirag assumes the bulk of the responsibility. During Chirag's off days, Satwik would salvage rallies.
However, the Satwik shoulder, worn down from overuse in an attacking game since a 2018 tear, needs eventual surgery. Despite this, it's helped India win two World Championship and Thomas Cup medals in 2022 and 2025-26. Chirag has trained hard to compensate for the extra responsibility, understanding that he must get fitter and stronger to take on the bigger attacking role.
While Satwik remains terrific even at half tilt, he will need to create openings and play a bit of the mixed-doubles game. Although it's not ideal, Chirag's smash, though not as celebrated as Satwik's, can be as terrifying. Chirag's long levers and quick-snap action in a super-flexible shoulder and wrist make him a crucial player.
With Satwik's shoulder issue gradually reducing reliance on him for the smash, Chirag's official arrival at the bill makes things interesting, but they will always need Satwik at his strongest to contend for the biggest titles.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
