Aparna Popat picked by Rajdhani Royal for NSCI Badminton League

by Shrutee K/DNS

Mumbai, October 10: Former Indian badminton star and 9-time National champion Aparna Popat, will be the star attraction during the second edition of the NSCI Badminton League (NBL), which is scheduled to conducted from November 11 to 13, at the NSCI badminton hall, Worli. Popat, who held the National crown for nine consecutive years, was picked by Rajdhani Royal and will be their key player.

The event is supported by Yonex and Sunrise and the medical partner is Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute.

Six franchise-based teams, Solitare Shuttlers, Rajdhani Royal, Roaring Raqueteers, Maverivk Aces, King Shuttlers and Giant Slayers will be competing for the top-honours in this tournament.

Each team will consist of 15 players, including 2 women and one player over 50 years.

“The NBL is a very good event. It’s special because of the representation by the club members. It helps to boost and motivate every member to continue playing badminton. It’s very exciting to be playing in this tournament. The way the tournament, is being organized is fantastic and I am looking forward to competition and will try to help my team Rajdhani Royal to emerge champions,” said the former Indian star shuttler.

Rakesh Malhotra, Hon. Reg. Secretary, NSCI said, “The NSCI is committed to sports and sporting events. I compliment all those who are working towards organizing the NSCI Badminton League. It’s a fantastic league and we will always support and encourage such events.”

Supriya Devgun, the brain behind the NSCI Badminton League, was overwhelmed with the response the event has received. “The response from members playing badminton was great. Over 130 enthusiastic and top notch players registered for the League. There is a lot of camaraderie as it brings everyone together. There is such beautiful friendship, both on and off the court and I don’t want to let the spirit go away,” stated Devgun, the Joint Convenor of NSCI Badminton and Founder Director of Evolution Sports.

Every team will play each other in a tournament round-robin league format. The team with the maximum points, will be declared winner, while the second best points will be the runners-up.

“My best wishes to all the participants and hope they compete well, play hard and fair and make the Badminton League the best sporting event at NSCI,” Devgun further said.