Domestic Tournaments: The Present Scenario

Indian badminton stars Saina Nehwal, P.Kashyap, P.V.Sindhu are in trouble that might be taken to the court. The Badminton Association of India(BAI) is reportedly suing these international level players for absenting themselves from the National Badminton Championship, Vijayawada.

The absence of India’s top stars at the domestic tournaments has irked the organizing secretary, also a key member of the BAI, because of financial reasons. The participation of such players helps in garnering good sponsorship along with inspiration and experience for the budding youngsters.

On the other side of the coin, the taxing international schedule of these shuttlers compels them to constantly travel and compete against world-class opposition. Moreover, the BAI’s selection committee does not consider the performance in domestic tournaments, taking only the world rankings into account, which leaves the players with little or no incentive to play.

The complaints from organizing committees regarding the absence of such key players in these tournaments isn’t unheard of. While Saina Nehwal has been a constant target for such allegations, Gurusaidutt and Ajay Jayaram have also joined the league. On the other hand, Sindhu, Srikanth, Ashiwini and Jwala opted to play only in the team events, giving the individual ones a miss. Though BAI has directed all its players to participate in the National Championships, never a serious action has been taken against the violators. However, with Saina having a difference of opinion with National coach P.Gopichand, this time the script may change.

As always, both sides have valid points to argue on. It is henceforth the responsibility of BAI and the Player’s Association(IBPWA) to discuss and come to an agreement.

edited by Bhavna Rachuri