Japan oust China from Thomas Cup

New Delhi, May 23 (IANS) Japan caused the biggest upset of the tournament when they ousted nine-time and defending champions China 3-0 in the Thomas Cup badminton semi-final at the Siri Fort Sports Complex here Friday.

Japan assured themselves of at least a silver medal by entering their first ever final of the prestigious biennial tournament while China had to be content with a bronze.

The defending champions won the last five previous editions of the tournament and the last time they did not enter the final was back in 2002.

In Sunday's final, Japan will meet the winners of the tie between Malaysia and Indonesia, who are to play Friday evening.

However, the Chinese women did not disappoint as they thrashed South Korea 3-0 in the Uber Cup semi-final and will take on the winner of the India vs Japan semi-final, to be played later Friday.