Student vs. Master: Gurkha Badminton rivalry steals the show with tussle for top spot

The Brigade of Gurkhas Badminton Championships made a welcome return to the military sporting calendar in 2025.

Following a hiatus of nearly 30 years, the popular event was restored to the list of competitions in the British Gurkha diary and the Brigade already boasts two of the best shuttlers across the Army.

Defending singles champion Lance Corporal Bishal Khadka and Army Badminton teammate Lance Corporal Prashant Rai both serve with the Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment. They were again the players to beat at this years tournament.

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LCpl Khadka previously represented Nepal on the international stage, including at the prestigious South Asian Games. He has now put his shuttlecock skills to the test in the UK and is a regular competitor on the County circuit for Hampshire. 

It was no surprise to see him dominate his side of the draw and reach the final of the open singles event where he would meet LCpl Rai to contest the title.

The pair know each other well, with the twosome representing not only the Army side, but also competing for the UK Armed Forces team. 

Their friendship goes back further. LCpl Kadkha coached Rai when they were growing up in Nepal. The stage was set for a Student versus Master showdown. 

Both players delivered on court producing brilliant badminton, but it was LCpl Khadka who emerged as the winner, retaining his crown with a 15-9, 15-16, 16-14 victory.

LCpl Khadka put his latest silverware success down to his exploits on the County circuit and said: "Last year I did really well in County games. I won a couple of England Badminton (events). So that eventually I got my (ranking) to 32 in the UK at the moment."

Following his singles success, LCpl Khadka then partnered Private Devendra Magar to triumph in the doubles competition. They beat Staff Sergeant Giri Gurung and Cpl Lok Thapa 16-14, 16-14.