Crackling Opening Session Sets the Tone – WT Finals: Day 1
The ‘group of death’ – men’s singles Group B - lived up to its billing on the opening day of the HSBC BWF World Tour Finals 2019 with two riveting matches.
· DEV SUKUMAR
Chen Long and Chou Tien Chen emerged winners over Viktor Axelsen and Anthony Ginting respectively, but the effort had taken them over an hour and ten minutes each.
Matches between Axelsen and Chen Long have often been hard-fought. While Chen does hold a commanding 14-4 lead, the record doesn’t say how finely balanced the exchanges have been when both have been at their best.
Today was one of those days when both appeared near the top of their game. Chen was nimble and fleet-footed, and with Axelsen having the advantage in attack, he often had to scramble. Despite losing a close first game, Axelsen kept his focus, and some great rallies ensued, showcasing some electric exchanges.