India’s Thomas Cup campaign may have ended with a bronze medal, but one of the biggest positives from the tournament was the emergence of young doubles player Hariharan Amsakarunan. Former India coach and All England champion Pullela Gopichand believes the youngster’s breakthrough could mark the beginning of a refreshing new phase for Indian badminton, especially in the doubles circuit.

“Hariharan is a very exciting prospect for Indian badminton,” Gopichand said while reflecting on the youngster’s performances in Denmark. “What impressed me most was his calmness and maturity on such a big stage. The Thomas Cup is never easy for a debutant because every match carries pressure, but he handled himself very well.”

The 22-year-old, who partnered experienced doubles specialist MR Arjun during the tournament, won two out of his three matches and played a key role in helping India secure a historic bronze medal finish in Horsens, Denmark. For many observers, the tournament became Hariharan’s arrival on the international stage.

Gopichand believes the timing of his rise is important for Indian badminton, which is looking to build stronger depth in doubles beyond established stars like Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty.

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“We have seen Indian doubles improve a lot in recent years, but sustaining that success depends on fresh talent continuously coming through,” Gopichand said. “Hariharan’s performances show that the next generation is ready to take responsibility. He has the temperament, discipline and hunger to succeed.”

As of now, Hariharan and MR Arjun have already emerged as one of India’s most promising men’s doubles pairs. The duo has enjoyed a strong run this season, winning multiple titles and steadily gaining confidence on the international circuit. According to Gopichand, exposure in team events like the Thomas Cup can significantly shape a young player’s career.

“These tournaments teach players how to deal with expectations and pressure. A bronze medal on debut is a big achievement because it gives belief to the player and confidence to the entire system,” he said. “That experience can help Hariharan grow into a very important player for India.”

Hailing from Coimbatore and having spent much of his growing years in Thanjavur, Hariharan has steadily worked his way through the domestic ranks before joining the Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad. His rise is now being viewed as another positive sign for Indian badminton’s future pipeline.

Gopichand feels India’s long-term success will depend on how quickly youngsters can adapt to the international stage. “We cannot depend on only one or two combinations forever. The future lies in building a larger pool of players who can perform consistently,” he said. “Hariharan has shown he belongs at this level. This could just be the beginning for him and for Indian doubles badminton.”

By Joe Williams