After a terrific 2015, Indian Badminton, Saina Nehwal is now getting ready to play in Premier Badminton League (PBL), representing Awadhe warriors.

After a two-year hiatus, finally the badminton league format is going to unlock a new pattern. Though many Indian shuttlers imprinted their authority globally within this duration, when it comes to a tournament favorite, the vintage is remembered.

In the inaugural season in 2013, Saina, steered Hyderabad Hotshots to glory, which is known as Indian Badminton League (IBL). She will now represent Awadhe Warriors.

When media was asked whether she had any regrets of shifting to Awadhe, Saina said, “I am happy to see PBL in progress no matter which team I play for.”

Several leagues like Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League etc, which are started at that time, had not faced any threat, but the formula went wrong in IBL case, vanishing after a successful opener in 2013.

Responding to the same, Saina said, “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.”

Saina lost the final to Carolina Marin (Spain), who was a part of IBL, but is not 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).”

Saina considered her nomination for the world badminton player (women) by Badminton World Federation as the best moment of the year. Saina further said that, all of her fellow players inspire her and treated them as the masters of their own game.

By Phani Ch