KUALA LUMPUR (12 MAY 2010) – Defending champions China stayed on course for their 12th Uber Cup title when they demolished first timers India 3-0 in the quarter-finals for a place in the semifinals.

The Chinese, who are favourites to retain the Cup they have won since 1984, except in 1994 and 1996 when Indonesia were champions, showed their class once again.

Although Wang Yihan got some resistance from India’s rising star Saina Nehwal in the first singles and had to back from a set down before winning 14-21, 21-11, 21-18, China were too strong for the Indians in the other matches.

Ma Jin-Wang Xiaoli strolled past Jwala Gutta-Ashwini Ponnappa 21-8, 21-11 in the first doubles before Wang Xin demolished Sayali Gokhale 21-10, 21-14 in the second singles to complete the rout.

China’s chief coach Li Yongbo confidently predicted that they have the team to go all the way to the final.

In the semifinals, China will take on Indonesia in a repeat of the 2008 final which the Chinese won 3-0. In the second semi-finals dark horses Korea will take on Japan.

South Korea proved too strong for Russia and won 3-1 while Japan stopped Denmark by a similar margin.

“I have faith in my players and I know they will deliver. I knew Wang Yihan would get some resistance from Saina. But it was smooth sailing for the rest of my players.

“We have beaten the Indonesians before and there should not be any problem in facing them again for a place in the final. However, we are not underrating any player but we are fully prepared to face them,” said Li Yongbo. - Media 247