New Delhi: The Indian women’s team are bracing up for tougher matches ahead in the Uber Cup. On Tuesday, the Saina Nehwal-side will face Thailand in their last league match.
The result of the match though will not hamper India’s entry into the quarter-finals. But on the morrow, all eyes would be on the first singles — Saina vs Ratchanok Intanon in Group Y.
Overall, Saina holds a 4-3 advantage over the reigning world champion. But since 2012, the Indian hasn’t been able to overcome the Thai — the 2013 All England Championships been the most recent meeting where Saina lost in straight games.
Said Saina on Tuesday, “She (Ratchanok) has improved a lot. I have to think about tomorrow’s match against her either tonight or tomorrow morning. But when you are in form and are playing well, then you never know what can happen in a match.”
Saina, who defeated Yip Pui Yin in straight games to give her team a winning start against Hong Kong on the day, said her on-court movements had gradually improved
“Today I am happy I defeated a player who is capable of beating anyone in the world."
“It gives you confidence to play against the top players. I Am happy that there are signs of improvement.”
Meanwhile, Ratchanok admitted that she was “low in confidence” following a series of injuries in the last one year, affecting her physically and mentally.
“I had a back injury last year followed by some other while training. So, I am playing just like I do in training. I don’t want to think too much about the tournament and take pressure,” the world no. 4 said.
