Saina Nehwal-Hyderabad Hotshots Player
A day off and then two action packed games one after another at Pune in Indian Badminton League brings a lot of changes in the points table on 22nd August. Hyderabad Hotshots retains their top spot with 15 points after a comprehensive victory against the Mumbai Masters. We will be reviewing both the games one by one and then we will discuss the preview for up-coming game.
Hyderabad Hotshots v/s Mumbai Masters (22nd August, 1600 hrs)
This game was very important for both the teams to retain the top spot. Hyderabad Hotshots keep their nerves tight even after losing the first game i.e., Men’s Singles. For me, it was quiet expected as Lee Chong Wei, world no. 1 was playing from Mumbai Masters. But then, it was the turn of Indian ace star, Saina Nehwal to turn things around for Hyderabad Hotshots. She made things look very simple by winning the games in straight two sets with the scores of (21 – 7) and (21 – 10). After this game, Hyderabad Hotshots never looked back and won two more back to back games to win the game. The only thing where Mumbai Masters went wrong was that they should have played Vladimir Ivanov for Men’s Singles 2. S Tanongsak was announced as the Vodafone player of the tie for this game.
Awadhe Warriors v/s Krrish Delhi Smashers (22nd August, 2000 hrs)
They came back with a bang. Yes, your guess is right. It’s Awadhe Warriors, who won the game with a score of 4-1 against Krrish Delhi Smashers. They also won a bonus point for this game. After losing their first two games in a row, it was a must game for them and they did it in style. Awadhe Warriors looked very strong from the beginning and they primarily attacked the KDS’s weaknesses i.e., Single’s games. They won all the single games and lost in Men’s Doubles which is Krrish Delhi Smashers strength. This game also brought first win for P.V. Sindhu after many loses. It was really a surprising tactic by Awadhe Warrior by sending Markis Kido for both the double’s game, but in the end it worked in their favour as he along with Pia Z Bernadet managed to win Mixed Doubles. K Srikanth was announced as the Vodafone Player of the tie for this match.
Pune Pistons v/s Banga Beats (23rd August, 2000 hrs)
This game is going to change the points table completely. The hunt for semifinals has already started as the top four teams will qualify for it. This will be the last game in Pune Leg and a home game for Pune Pistons as well. After losing their previous game, Pune Pistons will be looking to win this important game so that they can get back on track. At the same time, Banga Beats will also be thinking on the same lines to continue the winning streak. Banga Beats is currently placed last on the points table but they have only played two games as of now.
Don’t miss the game and if by chance you miss it, we will be there with the exciting review very soon!