COMMONWEALTH GAMES: Ramdhani demolishes Smeed in straight sets

Guyana’s top badminton player Narayan Ramdhani made a strong statement at the Commonwealth Games, breezing past Vernon Smeed of St. Helena in straight sets in Gold Coast, Australia, on Tuesday.

Playing in his opening match of the Games on Court Three of the Carrara Sports Arena Two, Ramdhani demolished Smeed in the Men’s Singles Round of 64. Ramdhani, who is currently on a five-year scholarship in Canada, stunned his opponent 21-6, 21-8, the match lasting a mere 19 minutes. 

“Just wasn’t meant to be today at the CWG badminton singles; gave it 110% just not enough. Massive respect to my opponent Ramdhani, wish you well in next round,” Smeed said in a Facebook post after the match.

While Smeed’s chances of medalling are over, Ramdhani remains in contention. The Guyanese will next face Jason Ho-Shue of Canada in the Round of 32 on Wednesday.