Ready for tough challenge at asian games, says Satwik Sairaj Rankireddy

Mumbai: Badminton star Satwik Sairaj Rankireddy says he plans to concentrate more on playing doubles.

When asked if he will move to singles, the reply is, “I don’t think anyone will tell me to play singles.”

Sairaj and Chirag Shetty claimed sliver in men’s doubles at the Commonwealth Games.

He will pair up with Chirag Shetty and Ashwini Ponappa in the Asiad and he is aware that they will face a stiffer battle at Jakarta.

“We are confident. Also at the same time, I know it will not be easy since it will only be players from Asian team who will play against us. For the last two months, we have been practicing for this and if we play at our 100%, we can beat anyone,” he said.

While the spotlight will be on top players like P.V. Sindhu and Saina Nehwal to win medals at the Asiad, Sairaj said the rest are also capable of claiming a place at the podium.

“We feel the pressure like Saina and Sindhu. I have been practicing with Chirag and Ashwini and are confident of doing well,” he added, also saying that the new service rule will pose a challenge to the players.