Mumbai: The league format of badminton is all set to unlock a new pattern after a two-year hiatus. Though many Indian shuttlers imprinted their authority globally within this duration, when it comes to a tournament favourite, the vintage is remembered. Indian badminton ace Saina Nehwal — after a terrific 2015 — is now sharpening her knives for the rechristened Premier Badminton League (PBL).
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Saina, who steered Hyderabad Hotshots (her home town franchise) to glory in the inaugural season in 2013 — known as Indian Badminton League (IBL) then — will now represent Awadhe Warriors but she has no regrets.
“I am happy to see PBL in progress no matter which team I play for,” she said in an exclusive chat.
All other leagues that started at the same time – Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League for example – never faced a threat but IBL vanished after a successful opener in 2013. Does it hurt brand Saina – the most successful Indian shuttler?
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“I don’t know these technical aspects. All I can say is the fact that it is happening is good for the Indian shuttlers. They will reap benefits technically as well as financially. But it should happen every year to promote badminton, the players can also watch the top players from abroad,” added Saina, who finished runners-up in the All England Badminton Championships.
She lost the final to Carolina Marin (Spain), who was a part of IBL but isn’t available for PBL.
“I think she has other commitments. Since the Rio Olympics is next year, all the top players may not be here. But in future, if PBL does well, all of them will be attracted to play here in India,” added the 25-year-old, who had a fantastic year clinching three silver medals (World Championships, All England Championships and China Super Series), two gold medals (Syed Modi Grand Prix and India Open Super Series).
But talking about the best moment from the year, Saina added: “When I was nominated for the world badminton player (women) by Badminton World Federation and when I became World No 1 as per rankings, it felt special.”
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Even Sania Mirza, her Hyderabadi counterpart, had a terrific year of tennis. Do other women, into racquet sports, inspire her?
“Yes, their achievements do inspire me a lot. Though it involves a racquet but it is entirely different. All of us are masters of our own game,” said Saina, who is currently nursing an ankle injury.
“I hope to be fit before the commencement of PBL,” she signed off.
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