Ayush Shetty vs Kunlavut Vitidsarn: When and where to watch semi-final clash

Ayush Shetty vs Kunlavut Vitidsarn LIVE: Where to watch Badminton Asia Championships semi-final.

India’s rising star Ayush Shetty is set for the biggest match of his young career as he takes on world No. 1 Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the semi-finals of the Badminton Asia Championships 2026 in Ningbo, China.

The clash pits one of India’s brightest prospects against the reigning world champion in what promises to be a gripping contest of momentum versus experience.

Shetty’s giant-killing run

Shetty has been one of the standout performers of the tournament. The 20-year-old began his campaign with a commanding straight-games win over world No. 7 Li Shi Feng, before getting past Chi Yu Jen in the next round.

His biggest statement came in the quarter-finals, where he stunned third seed Jonatan Christie in straight games. That victory not only underlined his potential but also guaranteed India a rare medal at the continental meet.

The run has come as a major boost for Indian badminton, especially after early exits for Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy.

Carrying India’s hopes

With the senior stars out, Shetty is now India’s lone contender in the men’s singles draw, carrying the country’s hopes into the semi-finals.

He has already secured a podium finish — becoming the first Indian men’s singles player since Prannoy in 2018 to win a medal at the Asian Championships. It also ends a brief wait for India, with the last medal at the event coming from the doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty in 2023.

More than the results, it is the manner of his performances that has impressed. Shetty has dominated higher-ranked opponents with composure, tactical clarity and confidence beyond his years.

Head-to-head

The two players have met once before on the BWF circuit. Their only previous clash came at the Arctic Open 2025, where Vitidsarn secured a straight-games win.

However, Shetty’s current form suggests this semi-final could be far more competitive, with the Indian arriving high on confidence and momentum.

Match details
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: Fourth match on Court 1 (play starts 7:30 AM IST; expected after 10 AM IST)
Venue: Ningbo, China