5 min readNew DelhiMar 20, 2026 11:33 PM IST A service return with deception, going to the backcourt with a last-minute rackethead change while shaping to tap it to the net. A couple of varieties of smashes from the baseline down the middle. A high defensive lift when she found herself in a tight corner. And then, finally, as her opponent tried to inject pace with a flat push, a sensational backhand crosscourt block, attacking the shuttle early, to turn defence into a winning shot. This 17-14 rally in the opening game against Japan’s Natsuki Nidaira was everything that is exciting about Tanvi Sharma’s potential in Indian badminton. From fluid movement on court, to a wide variety of shots and the game awareness to go along with it. The 17-year-old produced another impressive display in a 21-14, 21-14 quarterfinals win at the Orleans Masters Super 300 against a solid player who has been in the top 20 and is 10 years her senior. Nidaira, a player ranked 15 places above the Indian’s 38 at the …