Parabadminton player awaiting for his dues by PCI since June 2022

It was during the 2022 Para badminton International when the athlete, Sanjeev kumar along with his four teammates had to pay the organizers to access their accommodation and the venue.

Indian officials who were responsible for the team started playing a blame game. In June 2023 before the next edition, an email was sent from Joran Bridal, the Executive Director of Badminton Canada regarding the pending invoice of $2,480.

In the mail it clearly stated that only after the payment is done will the player be let into their accommodation and competition venue.

This led to an international embarrassment as the players were asked to vacate their hotel because the balance invoice was unpaid. 

“We were told to pay for accommodation and entry fees ourselves. We had no choice but to pay out of our own pockets. Since we paid all the dues, we had to borrow money for meals” Sanjeev Kumar stated.

A receipt issued by badminton Canada confirms that Sanjeev Kumar paid $710 (around 59,500) to cover the fees and accommodation. Para badminton official under the BAI said the amount was paid to PCI to cover expenses including entry fees.

The blame game just keeps going on whereas player, Sanjeev Kumar who has sent numerous reminders for refund still awaits a positive response from Para badminton chairman (Prabhakar rao)

Top 7 reasons why you should buy sports gear from The God of Sports

Are you a badminton enthusiast or a cricket lover who has just joined an academy? Looking for the best sports equipment and gear for yourself that don’t burn a hole in your pocket? Then you are at the right place.

At God Of Sports, we satisfy every Indian’s need of having the best sports equipment at their disposal. Be it cricket or football or badminton or pickleball, God Of Sports has it all covered.

Whether you’re a budding athlete or a seasoned pro, here are the top 7 reasons why God of Sports should be your go-to website for purchasing sports gear.

Top 7 reasons why you should buy sports gear from The God of Sports

1. Unmatched Variety of Products

God of Sports is not just another online e-commerce store; it’s a heaven for sports lovers. We understand that every sport is unique, and so are the requirements of its players. That’s why we offer an extensive range of products that cater to different sports, including cricket, football, badminton, pickleball, padel, tennis, and more. From top-quality footwear and apparel to specialized equipment and accessories, we ensure you have everything you need to take your game to the next level.

 

2. Quality Assurance with Every Purchase

At God of Sports, quality is not just a buzzword – it’s a commitment. We partner only with reputed brands and manufacturers who adhere to the highest standards of quality. Every product on our site is carefully curated, thoroughly tested, and vetted by experts to ensure it meets our strict quality benchmarks.

 

3. Competitive Pricing and Great Deals

Why pay more for high-quality sports gear? At God of Sports, we believe that premium products should not come with a premium price tag. Our competitive pricing strategy ensures you get the best value for your money. We regularly review market prices and adjust ours to stay competitive while maintaining our quality standards.

 

4. Customer-Centric Shopping Experience

Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and our website reflects that. We’ve designed a seamless, user-friendly interface that makes shopping effortless and enjoyable. Whether you’re browsing on your desktop, tablet, or mobile, our website is fully responsive and optimized for all devices, ensuring you have a smooth experience from start to finish.

 

5. Fast and Reliable Shipping

We understand that once you’ve made a purchase, you want to receive your products as quickly as possible. That’s why we offer fast, reliable, and affordable shipping options to get your gear to you without delay. Our robust logistics network ensures that all orders are processed promptly and delivered safely to your doorstep, no matter where you are.

 

6. Secure and Hassle-Free Payment Options

When shopping online, security is a top priority. At God of Sports, we use state-of-the-art encryption technology to protect your personal and financial information. We offer multiple secure payment options, including credit/debit cards, net banking, digital wallets, and cash on delivery, giving you the flexibility to choose the method that suits you best.

 

7. Commitment to Sustainability and Community

At God of Sports, we believe in more than just selling products – we believe in making a difference. We are committed to sustainability and take conscious steps to minimize our environmental impact. From using eco-friendly packaging to promoting products made from sustainable materials, we are dedicated to reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier planet.

 

Buying premium sports gear and equipment is a decision that needs lots of thinking. At God of Sports, we offer more than just products – we offer an experience that is tailored to your needs, committed to quality, and driven by a passion for sports. With our wide variety, unbeatable prices, customer-centric approach, and commitment to sustainability, we provide a compelling reason for every sports enthusiast to make us their preferred shopping destination.

Top 11 badminton courts in Mumbai

Top 11 badminton courts in Mumbai

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis, is not just known for its vibrant culture and dynamic lifestyle but also for its diverse sporting scene. The city, famous for its cricketing brilliance, is also witnessing an upward trend in terms of badminton.

Among the various sports that captivate Mumbaikars, badminton stands out as a popular choice for both casual players and serious enthusiasts. With its fast-paced action and minimal equipment requirements, badminton is accessible to everyone, and finding the perfect court to play can make all the difference.

If you’re looking for top-notch badminton courts in Mumbai, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the top 11 badminton courts that offer excellent facilities, professional coaching, and a great environment to improve your game. 

Top 11 badminton courts in Mumbai you should try out

The Sports Foundry @ Bhandup

The Sports Foundry is a unique multi-sports facility in Bhandup, featuring five top-quality wooden badminton courts for enthusiasts to enjoy thrilling matches. The facility has a washroom, flood lights, parking and clean drinking water.

Additionally, they boast two 6-a-side football/ box cricket turf and one cricket net facility which can be converted to a box cricket turf. Their facility is designed to cater to the diverse interests of sports enthusiasts, offering a welcoming environment for players of all levels.

Charges: ₹200 for 30 minutes

 

Universal High School @ Chembur

The Universal High School is a premium facility in Chembur that has 2 synthetic Badminton Courts, 2 5-a 5-a-side Box Cricket/ Football Turfs and a Cricket net for a wholesome experience.

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights and a seating area.

Charges: ₹600 for 60 minutes

 

MRBA 1 @ Kandivali (W)

Located in Thakur International School, Kandivali West, the MRBA 1 facility has a single wooden badminton court 

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a washroom and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹650 for 60 minutes

 

MRBA 2 @ Kandivali (W)

MRBA 2, another facility by the brand has a single wooden badminton court at Thakur International School that features high-quality flooring, clear white lines, and professional-grade nets, providing an excellent environment for training and playing badminton.

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a washroom and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹600 for 60 minutes

 

Mandar Ranade Badminton Academy @ Kandivali (E)

This is a one-of-a-kind facility that offers 6 wooden court badminton facilities located in Thakur Public School, Kandivali. 

The facility offers membership plans for badminton lovers starting from ₹ 2099 for 7 days. Additionally, the facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a washroom and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹500 for 60 minutes

 

Shuttle Whizz Badminton Academy @ Bandra (W)

The Shuttle Whizz Badminton Academy located in Bandra (W) boasts a state-of-the-art wooden badminton court facility.

The facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights and a warm-up area.

Charges: ₹350 for 30 minutes

 

Hurdles Badminton Academy @ Ghatkopar

The Hurdles Badminton Academy located in Ghatkopar offers a smooth badminton experience with a single court facility with an artificial turf surface.

The facility provides an artificial turf, flood lights and a warm-up area. Additionally, they offer badminton coaching (2 sessions/week). The sessions cost ₹3000 for 30 days.

Charges: ₹500 for 60 minutes

 

Global Badminton Academy @ Virar (W)

The Global Badminton Academy in Virar West has three top-quality wooden badminton courts. The facility offers a fantastic shuttling experience for all the badminton enthusiasts out there! 

The facility provides drinking water, parking, flood lights, a warm-up area and an expert coach.

Charges: ₹500 for 60 minutes

 

Shuttle Passion Badminton Academy @ Borivali (W)

Located in the heart of Borivali, this facility boasts six high-quality wooden badminton courts, providing a perfect surface for players to showcase their skills. 

The facility offers drinking water, parking, flood lights, a seating area, a washroom, a sports shop and an expert coach available.

Charges: ₹600 for 60 minutes

 

Monte South Badminton Court @ Byculla 

The Monte South Badminton Court located in Byculla is one of the best badminton facilities in the city. The facility has two synthetic badminton courts wherein you can easily conduct a game of badminton.

Additionally, the court offers a washroom and parking space for the visitors.

Charges: ₹1500 for 60 minutes

 

Padukone Shuttlers Academy @ Sion

The Padukone Shuttlers Academy, located in Sion, offers two wooden badminton courts. Looking to improve your game or conduct a badminton tournament? Then the Padukone Shuttlers Academy is the best fit for you. The facility takes only bulk/corporate booking. So, interested ones, please click here.

Indian Husband-Wife duo advance in the Hong Kong Open Super 500

​In a thrilling start to the Hong Kong Open Super 500, the Indian badminton mixed doubles duo of B Sumeeth Reddy and N Sikki Reddy showcased their prowess by advancing to the second round.​ Their victory marks a bright spot amidst a challenging day for other Indian shuttlers, particularly Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George, who faced early exits from the tournament. Fans are keenly anticipating the next matches as the Reddy duo aims for further success in this prestigious event.

B Sumeeth Reddy and N Sikki Reddy made a significant impact in the opening round of the Hong Kong Open, advancing to the second round with an impressive victory over fellow Indian players Tarun Kona and Sri Krishna Priya Kudaravalli. They secured the match with a straight-game win, finishing with scores of 21-9, 21-10 within a mere 22 minutes. This victory not only highlights their skill but also their synergy as a husband-wife pair competing on this international stage.

The match was characterized by their dominant performance, where they effectively controlled the pace and flow. The Reddy duo’s tactical approach and quick decision-making led to a comfortable win against their compatriots. It was a delightful display of talent that set a positive tone for their campaign in the tournament.

Looking forward, Sumeeth and Sikki will face the eighth-seeded pair of Masgoh Soon Huat and Lai Shevon Jemie in the next round. This upcoming match is sure to test their mettle as they aim to progress deeper into the tournament, fueled by the momentum from their recent success. Fans are excited to see if they can continue their winning streak against tougher competition.

Sadly, it wasn’t such a fortunate day for other Indian shuttlers. Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George both experienced first-round exits, with Rajawat falling to Japan’s Takuma Obayashi in a tightly contested match that ended 9-21, 21-16, 9-21. Meanwhile, Kiran met a similar fate against Su Li Yang of Chinese Taipei, concluding his match with scores of 16-21, 16-21. Their early departures serve as a reminder of the fierce competition present in the tournament.

The Hong Kong Open continues to be a platform where athletes demonstrate their talent and resilience. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Sumeeth and Sikki Reddy, hoping for further triumphs that will elevate their standing and inspire future generations of badminton players in India.

Indian Para Shuttler Nitesh Kumar Secures Maiden Paralympic Medal

Nitesh Kumar Slams BAI, Calls for Shift of Para Badminton to PCI

In a powerful social media statement that has resonated deeply within the sports community, Nitesh Kumar, India’s gold medalist from the 2024 Paris Paralympics, has publicly criticized the Badminton Association of India (BAI). The 29-year-old para-badminton star, who made headlines for his remarkable achievement in the Men’s Singles SL3 category, expressed his dissatisfaction with BAI’s engagement in para-badminton responsibilities and has urged that the sport be transferred to the Paralympics Committee of India (PCI).

Nitesh’s frustration is rooted in the perceived lack of support and responsiveness from BAI regarding the needs and interests of para-badminton athletes. In his candid remarks on social media, he highlighted that despite the association’s rare moments of appreciation, the athletes feel largely ignored. “We are highly dissatisfied with the response and the interest from BAI,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a more dedicated focus on para-badminton that PCI could potentially provide.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Nitesh’s social media post tagged prominent figures, including the Sports Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Arunachal Pradesh MP, Kiren Rijiju. By reaching out to these authorities, Nitesh hopes to amplify the voices of fellow para-athletes who share similar sentiments. His plea is clear: the governance of para-badminton needs to be handled by those who are attuned to the unique challenges faced by these athletes.

Nitesh Kumar’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Having won India’s second gold medal at the Paris Paralympics without losing a single match, his dedication and skill showcase the heights that can be achieved even against substantial odds. The final match saw him triumph over Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell with scores of 21-14, 18-21, and 23-21. His resilience in the face of a life-altering accident in 2009, which resulted in permanent leg damage, further underscores his remarkable spirit and passion for the sport.

As calls for a transfer of governance continue to echo through the sporting world, it remains to be seen how BAI will respond to the growing discontent among para-badminton athletes. Nitesh Kumar’s bold stand not only highlights the urgent need for change but also sets a precedent for other athletes to speak up regarding their concerns. As his journey unfolds, supporters hope that his voice leads to meaningful change for para-badminton in India, ensuring that the sport receives the attention and support it truly deserves.

Saina Nehwal Defends Olympic Medal Comments Amid Criticism

“Pehle Olympics ke liye qualify toh karke dikhao!” says Saina Nehwal

In a passionate and fierce response to her critics, Indian badminton star Saina Nehwal has taken to social media to defend her hard-earned Olympic bronze medal from the London 2012 Games. Recently, comments circulated online questioning the credibility of her achievement, suggesting that her medal was a “gift” rather than the result of her skill and perseverance. Saina’s reply not only tackled the criticism head-on but also inspired conversations about the dedication and sacrifices athletes make to reach the pinnacle of their sport.

​Saina’s retort was both direct and poignant.​ “Olympic level ke layak toh bano aap. Pehle Olympics ke liye qualify toh karke dikhao,” she proclaimed, challenging her detractors to first qualify for the Olympics themselves before questioning her success. Her words resonate not just as a defense of her accomplishments but also as an invitation to understand the journey that elite athletes undertake. This statement encapsulates the frustration felt by many athletes who endure years of rigorous training, sacrifices, and fierce competition to represent their country on the world stage.

In the backdrop of the recently concluded Paris Olympics, Saina’s comments reflect the ongoing discourse about accountability and respect within sports. She emphasized that the process of qualifying for the Olympics is no small feat, requiring immense dedication, resilience, and sometimes overcoming significant obstacles.

As the first Indian shuttler to win an Olympic medal, Saina Nehwal’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Her bronze at the 2012 London Games marked a historic moment for Indian badminton, elevating the sport’s profile in the country and paving the way for future generations of players. Saina’s impact is not just in her victories but also in the barriers she broke, showcasing that athletes from India can shine on the global stage.

Her husband and fellow badminton player, Parupalli Kashyap, supported her stance, revealing that Saina’s remarks during the recent Olympics triggered these unwarranted critiques. He echoed her frustration, reinforcing the idea that achievements should be recognized rather than undermined.

As Saina Nehwal continues her journey in badminton, her response to the criticism she faced unveils a crucial chapter in her story. It highlights not just her individual resolve but also a collective call for respect for all athletes who aspire to compete at the highest levels.

Saina Nehwal's Arthritis Battle Raises Questions About Badminton Future

Saina Nehwal’s Arthritis Battle Raises Questions About Badminton Future

Saina Nehwal, India’s badminton icon and former Olympic bronze medalist, has revealed her battle with arthritis, casting doubt on her future in the sport. The 34-year-old, who made history as the first Indian shuttler to win an Olympic medal, is facing the reality that her illustrious career may be nearing its end.

Nehwal’s knee injury, aggravated by arthritis, has severely limited her training hours. “The knee is not very good. I have arthritis. My cartilage has gone to a bad state. It is very difficult to push for eight-nine hours,” she said.

The realization that her body is no longer capable of the rigorous training required to compete at the highest level has forced Nehwal to confront the possibility of retirement. “I think I will have to accept it somewhere. Because two hours of training is not good enough to play with the highest level of players and get the desired results,” she admitted.

Nehwal’s decision will be influenced by the impact retirement will have on her life. “I am also thinking about it (retirement). It will be sad because it is like a job that a normal person does. Obviously, a sportsperson’s career is always a short one,” she said.

Despite the challenges, Nehwal remains proud of her accomplishments. “I have also had a long career and I am very proud of that. I have broken my body to a great extent. I am happy with what I have done and given it all,” she said.

The Padma Shri awardee expressed her disappointment at missing the Olympics for two consecutive editions. “Competing at the Olympics is a childhood dream for all. You prepare to reach that level for years. Hence, at times, when you realize you will not be able to make it, it hurts a lot,” she said.

Nehwal also spoke about the pressure of expectations that comes with being a top athlete. “When you become a big player, your friends, family, coaches, sponsors, everyone wants you to perform. There are a lot of stakeholders involved,” she said.

As she contemplates her future, Nehwal remains grateful for the support she has received throughout her career. “I have done a lot of hard work. I competed in three Olympics. I gave my 100 per cent in all of them. I can take pride in that and be happy about it,” she said.

Nitesh Kumar Wins Gold in Para Badminton at Paris Paralympics

India Shines Bright in Paralympic Badminton

The buzz around the Paris 2024 Paralympics has reached new heights, and as ardent supporters, we couldn’t be more thrilled to witness the Indian para-badminton players put on a show that truly embodies the spirit of our nation! The atmosphere at La Chapelle Arena was electric, filled with cheers and excitement as these incredible athletes demonstrated their unparalleled talent and unwavering determination. Every match was a reminder of resilience and hard work, creating unforgettable moments that will stay in our hearts for years to come.

A Golden Moment for Nitesh Kumar

One moment that stands out was when Nitesh Kumar captured the spotlight in the men’s singles SL3 event. I held my breath as he went head-to-head with Daniel Bethell, the silver medalist from Tokyo 2020. The nail-biting battle unfolded over three sets, and I can still feel the tension in the air as Nitesh clinched the gold with a score of 21-14, 18-21, 23-21. Watching him transform his dedication and hard work into this incredible victory was nothing short of inspiring, and when he raised that gold medal high, it was a moment of pure joy that brought the crowd roaring to its feet.

Silver Linings for Suhas Yathiraj and Thulasimathi Murugesan

Not too far behind, Suhas Yathiraj and Thulasimathi Murugesan etched their names into the spotlight by securing silver medals in their respective events. It was a joy to see their hard work come to fruition as they showcased both resilience and strategy throughout the competition. They fought valiantly, maintaining composure even in the most intense moments, and their fierce spirit reminded all of us what true dedication looks like.

Impressive Bronze Finish for Nithya Sre Sivan and Manisha Ramadass

And let’s not overlook the remarkable achievements of Nithya Sre Sivan and Manisha Ramadass, who proudly brought home bronze medals in their category. Their success represents so much more than just personal victories; they are shining examples of hope for aspiring athletes everywhere. Witnessing their journey has left me in awe, as they embody the essence of determination we all strive for.

As these extraordinary athletes continue to shine on the global stage, their accomplishments resonate far beyond the medals they earn. Each of them embodies resilience, determination, and a spirit that refuses to give up, inspiring countless individuals across the country. ​The success of the Indian contingent in badminton is a powerful reminder of the tenacity of those who dare to chase their dreams, and I couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.​

In celebrating their victories, let us also reflect on the lessons of hope and perseverance they bring. Here’s to the remarkable athletes of India, whose journeys uplift us all and remind us that anything is possible with hard work and heart!

Suhas Yathiraj Claims Silver in Men's Singles SL4 at Paris Paralympics

Suhas Yathiraj Claims Silver in Men’s Singles SL4 at Paris Paralympics

In a highly anticipated rematch of the Tokyo Paralympics gold medal match, India’s Suhas Lalinakere Yathiraj faced off against France’s Lucas Mazur once again in the Men’s Singles SL4 section at the Paris Paralympics. However, history repeated itself as Mazur emerged victorious, securing a 2-0 (9-21, 13-21) victory over Yathiraj, leaving the Indian with a silver medal.

Yathiraj, an IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, had previously lost to Mazur in three games in the Tokyo final. Despite a valiant effort, he was unable to replicate that performance in Paris, falling short in both games. The SL4 category is designed for players with movement affected at a low level on one side of the body, in both legs, or the minor absence of one limb. They play standing on a full-width court and possess good court movement and a full range of shots.

Yathiraj, the reigning Asian Para Games gold medallist in the SL4 category, has a long-standing rivalry with Mazur. The Frenchman continued his dominance in the tournament, taking an early 7-0 lead in the first game. Despite Yathiraj’s attempts to fight back, Mazur’s early advantage proved insurmountable, resulting in a 9-21 loss for the Indian.

In the second game, Yathiraj sought to gain momentum, but Mazur’s challenge proved too formidable. The Indian trailed 6-11 at the mid-game interval and was unable to close the gap, ultimately losing 13-21. Mazur comfortably secured his second consecutive gold medal in this category.

Yathiraj’s journey in Paris began with two consecutive straight-set victories. He defeated Indonesia’s Hikmant Ramdani 21-7, 21-5 and Republic of Korea’s Kyung Hwan Shin in the opening stages to top Group A. Group winners were guaranteed a spot in the semifinals of the event, where Suhas faced compatriot Sukant Kadam.

Yathiraj bested Kadam in straight games, securing a decisive 2-0 victory (21-19, 21-12) in a match that lasted 35 minutes. The win over Kadam paved the way for a rematch between Yathiraj and Mazur, which ultimately went the Tokyo way, with the Indian settling for silver.

Mazur carved his way into the final by topping Group D. He defeated Brazil’s Rogerio Oliviera 2-0 before knocking out Indian para-shuttler Tarun Dhillon 2-0 in the second game. He then proceeded to breeze past Indonesian Fredy Satiawan, the bronze medallist in Tokyo, with yet another 2-0 victory.

Yathiraj, alongside Thulasimathi Murugesan, who won the silver, and Manisha Ramadass, who secured the bronze medal in the Women’s Singles SU5 category earlier, has taken India’s medal tally in Paris to 12.

Saina Nehwal Battles Arthritis, Faces Uncertain Badminton Future

Saina Nehwal Battles Arthritis, Faces Uncertain Badminton Future

Saina Nehwal, India’s badminton icon and former Olympic bronze medalist, has revealed her battle with arthritis, casting doubt on her future in the sport. The 34-year-old, who made history as the first Indian shuttler to win an Olympic medal, has been hampered by injuries in recent years.

Nehwal’s knee condition has deteriorated to the point where she can no longer train for the extended hours required to compete at the highest level. “The knee is not very good. I have arthritis. My cartilage has gone to a bad state. It is very difficult to push for eight-nine hours,” she said.

The realization that her career is nearing its end has been a difficult one for Nehwal. “I think I will have to accept it somewhere. Because two hours of training is not good enough to play with the highest level of players and get the desired results,” she admitted.

Nehwal is considering retirement but is still weighing the impact it will have on her life. “I am also thinking about it (retirement). It will be sad because it is like a job that a normal person does. Obviously, a sportsperson’s career is always a short one,” she said.

Despite the challenges, Nehwal looks back on her career with pride. She competed in three Olympic Games and gave her all in each one. “I have done a lot of hard work. I competed in three Olympics. I gave my 100 per cent in all of them. I can take pride in that and be happy about it,” she said.

Nehwal also spoke about the pressure of expectations that comes with being a top athlete. “When you become a big player, your friends, family, coaches, sponsors, everyone wants you to perform. There are a lot of stakeholders involved,” she said.

As Nehwal contemplates her future, she knows that she will have to make a decision by the end of the year. Her legacy as one of India’s greatest badminton players is secure, but the question remains whether she will continue to push her body or step away from the sport that has defined her life.

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