Kashyap falters in semi-finals of Indonesia Open

Olympic-bound Indian shuttler P Kashyap failed to cross the semi-final hurdle at the Indonesia Super Series Premier after suffering a straight-game defeat against World No. 9 Simon Santoso in the men's singles competition in Jakarta on Saturday.

The World No. 26 Indian was erratic and also struggled at the nets to go down 15-21, 12-21 to Simon in a 46-minute match at Istora Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

Kashyap matched Simon initially but the Indonesian broke the Indian's game plan and moved into the break at 11-10. Simon varied the pace of the rallies and pushed Kashyap into committing mistakes to lead 14-13.

Simon had a better idea of the court and made some sound line judgements. With Kashyap faltering at the nets and his strokes going wide, it allowed Simon to enjoy a five-point cushion at 20-15. Another mistake with a cross court net shot and Simon was leading the match 1-0.

In the second game, Kashyap opened up an early lead at 6-3 but Simon clawed back with three consecutive points but the Indian used his smashes and drops to restore the lead at 9-8.

But Simon once again wrested a 11-9 lead at the break.

With Kashyap struggling with his net play and inaccurate strokes, Simon moved to a 15-11 lead. The Indian was also late in reacting to some shots as Simon reeled off five straight points to move to the match point at 20-12 and with Kashyap failing to judge a drop shot, it was all over for the Indian.

Kashyap will next play in the Singapore Open from June 19-24 at Singapore City.