H S Prannoy reaches final of Australia Open

India's H S Prannoy. Credit: PTI Photo

Star Indian shuttler H S Prannoy entered the Australia Open final after defeating compatriot Priyanshu Rajawat in straight games here on Saturday.

The world number nine Prannoy took 43 minutes to ward off 21-year-old Rajawat's challenge 21-18 21-12.

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Making his maiden semifinal appearance in a Super 500 tournament, Orleans Masters champion Rajawat gave a good account of himself as he gave a tough fight to sixth seed Prannoy in the opening game.

However, Prannoy, who won the Malasysia Masters in May, dipped into his reservoir of experience to take the second game comfortable and seal the tie.

Prannoy will face China's Weng Hong Yang in the final.