Shuttler's selection should be based on past performance: HC

The Bombay High Court today directed the Badminton Association of India (BAI) to consider shuttler Prajakta Sawant's selection in forthcoming tournaments based on her performance in the past two years.
A division bench of Chief Justice Mohit Shah and Justice A V Mohta also asked chief national coach Pullela Gopichand against whom Sawant has levelled allegation of mental harassment to not remain present during the selection meeting.
Gopichand through his advocate had offered to stay away from the selection meeting when Sawant's selection is discussed.
Accepting this, the court directed the BAI to decide Sawant's selection for upcoming tournaments on the basis of her performance in the past two years.

The court was hearing a petition filed by Sawant, who had alleged mental harassment by Gopichand after she was refused entry to the All India National Coaching Camp in Hyderabad.
Sawant also alleged that Gopichand, being the chief national coach and a member of the selection committee of BAI, promoted players from his own Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy.

The court was today informed that the Maharashtra government has sanctioned Rs three lakh towards Sawant's sponsorship.
Sawant's lawyer Piyush Shah told the court that because of Gopichand no other player was willing to participate in doubles tournament with her.
Gopichand's lawyer argued that he was still ready to coach her in a professional manner if the allegations were withdrawn.

The court, while disposing of the petition, asked Sawant to withdraw all allegations levelled by her against Gopichand.