Asian Games more competitive than Commonwealth Games: Ponappa

Ashwini Ponnappa is eyeing a podium finish at the upcoming Asian Games but the ace shuttler conceded that the Continental games are more competitive than the Commonwealth Games with some top badminton nations in the fray.

Ponappa, a Red Bull athlete, had played a crucial role in the India winning its first ever gold medal in a team event at the Commonwealth Games early this year.

"At the international level there are no easy games as every team has quality players but yes Asian Games are more competitive than the Commonwealth games as the top-badminton nations like China, Japan, Korea, Indonesia and Thailand are a part of it," the 28-year-old shuttler, who plays doubles, told PTI.

Asian Games are scheduled to be held in Indonesia from August 18 to September 2 in Jakarta and Palembang.

"It would be a great challenge to compete against these teams as it would test our skills, speed and endurance. We aim to put our best foot forward and look for a podium finish in the Asian Games," Ponappa said.

Recalling that women's team had a podium finish in the last 2016 Asian Games, Ponappa said the team would be looking to achieve a similar feat in this year.

"We finished on the podium in the last Asian Games in the women's team event. The ultimate goal is to get gold for the nation, so most definitely yes the team is looking for a podium finish at the Asian Games."