The fourth season of Premier Badminton League is just around the corner as stars get ready for yet another exciting season of the league. Two-time finalist Mumbai Rockets will we eyeing for their maiden glory as they made some smart purchase in the auction to build a squad capable of giving competition. Today we focus on the squad by rockets as they open the tournament with a home leg on December 22nd.
Singles:
Anders Antonsen
(Photo: AFP)
The 21-year-old Danish shuttler who was a silver medalist at the last year’s European Championship is all set to go out all guns blazing in the Premier Badminton League. Known for his swiftness on the court, Antonsen’s deft stroke play can put the opponent off their feet. His addition to the side strengthens the line up in a big way.
Sameer Verma
The Indian shuttler has had a great season so far which saw him win the Swiss Open and the Syed Modi International tournament. He also has a good experience of the league (PBL) having played for three franchises in the first three editions. Rockets will be hoping for Sameer to fire in the tournament on the back of some fine performances.
Pratul Joshi
Having made his debut with the North-Eastern Warriors in the last season, Pratul Joshi will once again look to prove a point when she dons the jersey of Mumbai Rockets.
Doubles:
Lee Yong-Dae (Captain)
One of the most successful doubles player, the South Korean dynamo will be looking to lead the team from the front in the upcoming edition of PBL. The player who has won a gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a silver at the 2012 London Olympics, the rockets will be hoping for him to fire throughout the tournament.
Manu Attri
The Indian double specialists will be making a comeback to the side, who he played in the inaugural season. Attri’s addition to the doubles department will benefit the team as his experience alongside Lee Yong Dae will be vital.
Kim Gi Jung
Two time World Championship bronze winner, is the star doubles attraction in the Mumbai Rockets squad. The South Korean’s experience at the international level is an asset to the side.
Pia Zebadiah (Mixed Doubles)
(Photo: AFP)
The Indonesian was a part of the PBL3 winning side Hyderabad Hunters last season and this season she will be seen in Rockets color. Pia who relies on tact and control will be keen to continue her good form for the new franchisee.
Indian juniors:
Kuhoo Garg (Mixed Doubles)
She was a part of the Mumbai Rockets last year, and this year too she will be making her presence felt in the rockets camp. She one of the marquee youngsters to watch out for in this season and is coming into the tournament after winning the Iceland International and finishing runners-up at the Lagos International.
Anura Prabhudesai (Women’s Singles)
The 19-year-old shuttler from Goa become the first badminton player from her state to become the Indian #1 in both women’s singles and doubles. The youngster will be hoping to make a strong impression with the side.
