IBL has given fillip to badminton: Jwala Gutta

Observing that the Indian Badminton League (IBL) has given a much needed boost to the game, ace shuttler Jwala Gutta Sunday exuded confidence about doing well in the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, beginning July 23.

"IBL has really done a lot for badminton, much like football,A people have been catching up even late night IBL games. So I think it has really created a buzz and given badminton a much needed fillip," Gutta, who plays for Delhi Smashers in the League, told mediapersons here.

Gutta, who partnered Ashwini Ponnappa to win gold medal in the 2010 Commonwealth Games, said the fact that India hosted the previous edition of the games will play a big part in its performance in the Glasgow Games.

"The credit goes to the government for bringing in the Delhi games which has given a boost to several games including badminton. The infrastructure has improved, people are following other sports and we have talented and experienced players. So we are confident of India doing very well," she said.

Asserting her ultimate sporting goal was to win a medal at the Rio Olympics, Gutta said her immediate focus is to defend her title in the Commonwealth Games. A

"Our preparations have been good, I and Ashwini have been playing well. I am fortunate to have a hardworking and talented partner in her and we are hopeful of doing well," she said.

Talking about sporting idols, Gutta picked up football legend Diego Maradona and badminton ace Susi Susanti.

"I grew up watching Susi Susanti. She has been a legend both on and off the field. For me a true sporting legend is one who is equally great off the field as he or she is on the field.

"As regards other games, though I don't follow much of football but I am a fan of Maradona and watched him playing during my growing up years," she said. AAA

Gutta, who has acted in a Telugu cinema, said she has no plans to join showbiz in the near future.