Asiad badminton: Sindhu, Saina move to 2nd round with contrasting wins

PV Sindhu had to dig deep to down a fighting Vu Thi Trang of Vietnam but Saina Nehwal did not break any sweat as India' top two shuttlers advanced to the women's singles second round at the 18th Asian Games, here today.

World Championship silver medallist Sindhu faced stiff resistance from world number 52 Trang before prevailing 21-10 12-21 23-21 in a tough opening round which lasted 58 minutes.

In complete contrast, Saina just walked into the second round with a crushing 21-7 21-9 win over Iran's Soraya Aghhajiagha in just 26 minutes.

In the next round, both Sindhu and Saina play Indonesia players who will have crowd support.

Sindhu takes on Tunjung Gregoria Mariska while Saina will lock horns with Fitriani.

"I did not take it easy but that was a very good match. It was anybody's game, each point was important. I was making too many errors. She was not leaving any shuttle. It was not allowing me to attack. There was drift here and there but we have to manage," Sindhu said reflecting on the tough contest.

"I was playing her for the first time but I never thought it will be an easy match. She did well."
"I had seen her past records. She has played some good match at series tournaments. She knows how to play against big players."
"It's not easy but I will try my best, she has a good chance. It's not easy playing here. I play an Indonesian next and she will be cheered by home fans."