Japan rout Thailand 3-0 to claim Uber Cup

Bangkok: Japan’s women took the Uber Cup on Saturday, defeating hosts Thailand 3-0, clinching the prestigious badminton title for the first time since 1981. Star player Akane Yamaguchi got Japan off to a flyer, beating Ratchanok Intanon 21-15, 21-19 in the first singles match. World number two doubles pair Yuki Fukushima and Sayaka Hirota picked up the second point, before Nozomi Okuhara sealed the win, defeating Nitchaon Jindapol 21-12, 21-9. On Sunday, Japan will look to make it a clean sweep in Bangkok when their men play China for the Thomas Cup.