Top shuttlers and larger prize purse to rediscover nationals pride

HYDERABAD: An average Indian badminton fan is spoiled for choice. There are a plethora of big tournaments (6 Superseries Premier, 7 Superseries, 14 Grand Prix Gold and 5 Grand Prix) in which top players participate.

Amongst the star-studded tourneys, the senior national badminton championship was almost obscure. The main reason for that was the absence of stars like PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal.

With prize money being the highest in its history (Rs 60 lakh) and the presence of all top shuttlers, the event is set for a metamorphosis.

All of them have been granted direct entry into the pre-quarters. Numero Uno players from the latest Badminton Association of India (BAI) rankings have also been granted the same. The only exception is for the mixed-doubles category, which will also see the top two BAI-ranked pairs directly in the quarters.

Express contacted Prannoy to learn about how top players are feeling about the event. His response summed up the reason why nationals have been snubbed by stars of the game.

"There is a valid reason behind why top players ignored tournaments like these: lack of basic facilities. Eighty per cent of players opt out due to that. When I participated in the last nationals in Patna, the experience was terrible. Lodging was not good. The courts were lit improperly. Top players won't risk injury. There is no other reason."

When asked about Nagpur, Prannoy hinted that times are changing. "I am really excited since the level of competition will skyrocket. The event has been promoted in an impressive manner."

With all the revamp that has been done, the Nationals suddenly seem to have what it takes to get into the roster of an average fan.