Mumbai: Hyderabad Hunters marquee player Parupalli Kashyap feels the introduction of the ‘trump match’, a unique feature of the Premier Badminton League, will make the league exciting and challenging.
“The trump match concept is unique. Though it is tricky, it will be keep the league interesting. Even if the opponents are leading 3-0 in the tie, you still have a chance and that makes it tricky for the other team. So, the tie is not finished until the end,” said the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medal winner here.
Currently ranked 14th in the Badminton World Federation rankings, Kashyap said the trump match will make team strategies important.
“The trump match can swing the tie either way. So, team meeting will be more focused on it as to how to make it work to your advantage as well as when to use it. The fact that you can use it twice on a player throughout the league stage as well as once in the knock-out rounds, makes it more intriguing and fun.”
Elaborating on the new format, the 29-year-old shuttler said, “In our case, we know Lee Chong Wei would most likely win, so we can use it during his tie. But what makes it interesting is on which of his match you will use it that will make the difference. So, it keeps one thinking.”
Kashyap, who will be leading defending champions Hyderabad, said the Chong Wei will have to play a major role if the team have to go the distance.
“Having the former World No.1 is a big boost. He is with the squad till January 10, so he will be available for a major part of the competition. Then we have the experienced duo of Carsten Mogensen and Markis Kido, who are the ones to watch out for. And their presence and experience is enough to lift the team’s confidence. So, it is a good balance,” Kashyap further added.
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