Unfriendly conditions posed a challenge during a recently-concluded Super Series, say Indian shuttlers.
Among many things that the badminton players have to contend with is the drift on court caused by air conditioning. India’s B Sai Praneeth would have learnt it the hard way, going by his recent experience.
In his first round match of the recent Singapore Open Super Series, the Praneeth-Hun Yu match did not have a single smash or net point.
Former national coach and current selector U Vimal Kumar flayed the organisers of the tournament and the world governing body, Badminton World Federation, saying that the players’ concerns were not looked into.
However, players were more circumspect about the issue saying it is a part of modern-day game and players have to adjust. About the issue, Kumar said: “There is so much of AC in the hall that it doesn’t allow players to play their shots. It affects their game a lot. I’d blame BWF for such playing conditions. With the ACs and blowers in full blast and the feathers being very light, the shuttles are so fast that players cannot control them.
“As it is, the scoring pattern is such that it puts players under pressure. One error and they lose a point. If a match is played without a drop, smash or net play, then what is badminton? Nobody is bothered about players’ concerns. If they don’t play smashes, what is the purpose of playing badminton,” Kumar said adding that the BWF should look into these issues.
Saina Nehwal, who lost in the quarterfinals, said that the conditions were same for all shuttlers. “There was a lot of drift from one side. But it was there for everyone. A little more command on the game is required in such situations. I was keen to beat my opponents but failed because of lack of speed on my part.”
Parupalli Kashyap, who exited in the first round, said: “The AC going full blast is a challenge. I wouldn’t blame the BWF. The spectators can’t sit in humid conditions. The players have to adjust themselves. That is a challenge and it becomes more interesting.”
BWF did agree that drift was an issue in Singapore. Secretary general Thomas Lund told dna: “There was some drift in the stadium as has been the case in past Singapore Open tournaments. However, steps were taken to ensure that it was at a minimum.
“Additionally, the settings for the air conditioning and blowers were the same from the qualifying rounds right through to the finals. As it’s not uncommon to have draught in the stadium, most venues experience some drift. This is why we have practice sessions for players to acclimatise as BWF strives to ensure a good balance for all parties to enjoy badminton at an optimum level.”
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