The Bhutan badminton teams in the Under-15, Under-17, and Under-23 categories endured a challenging outing at the ongoing Badminton Asia South Asia Regional Championships 2025 – Team Events, suffering defeats against strong sides from Sri Lanka and Nepal.

On Friday, August 15, Bhutan’s Under-23 team went down 5–0 to Sri Lanka. Star shuttler Dumindu Abeywickrama and Ranithma Liyanage led the way for the Lankans with commanding singles and doubles victories. Bhutan’s players, including Avik Balampaki, Kritty Gurung, Ngawang Rigsel Jurmey, and Phuntsho Dema, fought hard but could not overcome the experienced Sri Lankan side.

In the Under-17 category, Bhutan fell 5–0 to Nepal. Despite spirited performances from Pema Tenzin and Yangchen Dolkar, Nepal’s Subin Shrestha and Rihanna Sherchan proved too strong, sealing the tie with dominant singles and doubles wins.

The competition remained difficult on Saturday, August 16, when Bhutan’s Under-23 squad once again faced Nepal, who secured a clean sweep of 5–0. Nepal’s national star Prince Dahal, alongside Rasila Maharjan and Kshitiz Khanal, displayed high-class badminton to maintain their unbeaten run in the tournament.

In the Under-15 division, Bhutan was outplayed by Sri Lanka 5–0. Young talents such as Thamindu Fernando and Nithini Kotuwegoda Guruge showcased impressive skill, leaving Bhutan’s upcoming shuttlers Tandin Y Sonam and Yeshey Leksel Dorji struggling to find answers.

Though results have not gone Bhutan’s way, the young squad is gaining valuable exposure and experience against South Asia’s best. The tournament continues with crucial matches ahead, and Bhutan will look to bounce back with stronger performances.