PBL great platform for young shuttlers to learn: Saina

Ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal believes that the Premier Badminton League (PBL) is the perfect platform for the country's budding talent to learn and play alongside some of the best in the business.

The World No.2 will be representing Awadhe Warrior in the PBL which began here on Saturday.

"I am happy that the league is starting again. All teams are prepared well fo the tournament. Happy for Indian badminton. I think it is a great platform for the youngsters to learn from the top class players," Saina said here before the start of the league.

"It will b good fun here and exciting matches will be played. I am looking forward to play as a team as I never before played in a team like this. Team spirit will come into play here," the 2012 Olympic bronze medalist and 2015 World Championship silver medallist said.

Besides Awadhe, the other five franchisees participating in the PBL are Delhi Acers, Hyderabad Hunters, Bengaluru Top Guns, Chennai Smashers, and Mumbai Rockets.

India's top doubles player Jwala Gutta said she is excited to be a part of the PBL.

"I am excited to be a part of the league and most importantly the Hyderabad team. Lot of drama and action will be seen in these few days. We all will give our best to come out victorious," Jwala said.

World No.12 P.V. Sindhu, who will represent Chennai Smashers in the PBL said, "I am looking forward to some great matches in the coming days.PBL is a great platform to showcase all our talent."

"We all will have a great time, Mumbai has a balanced team and we will give our best to win. PBL is a great stage for us to perform well," World No.20 H.S. Prannoy who will play for Mumbai Rockets, said.