Indian men eye consistency in Thomas Cup title defence, women too look to shine in Uber Cup

Indian men aim to defend Thomas Cup title against tough competition, while young women's team looks to exceed expectations in Uber Cup.

Star singles players will aim for a consistent run as Indian men embark on a tough journey of defending their title at the Thomas Cup, while a young women's team, sans the peerless P V Sindhu, will look to punch above its weight when it begins its campaign in Uber Cup here on Saturday.

Just two years ago, India had sent shockwaves across the badminton world when they clinched their maiden Thomas Cup crown, considered the team world championship for men.

Without the burden of expectations, India went on to dismantle the world's best teams to script an unprecedented chapter in the history of the sport, and now they return to the 33rd edition with the arduous task of once again showing their might against the top echelons of the sport.

However, the underdog tag won't be there this time. In fact, all the teams will be gunning for the defending champions, who have retained the core of the 2022 side which had made history in Bangkok.

India will count on the experience of last edition as they have been put in the 'Group of Death', featuring multiple-time winners Indonesia, Thailand and England in Group C.

Indian men will begin their campaign against Thailand, who boost of reigning world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn and young Panitchaphon Teeraratsakul.

But the most formidable will be third-seeded Indonesia, who have the likes of Jonatan Christie and Anthony Ginting -- the two played the finals of All England in March --, and world No. 7 pair of Muhammad Rian Ardianto and Fajar Alfian.