Aparna's ban period ends

BANGALORE, JUNE 14. The International Badminton Federation's three- month ban on the Indian National women's champion Aparna Popat ended on June 13.

The IBF had barred the 22-year-old Indian ace from competition from March 12, for an inadvertent intake of a banned substance, Phenylpropanolamine during the Uber Cup round held in New Delhi in February.

Aparna, who was suffering from an acute cold during the championship took D'Cold Total which contained the banned drug. Aparna tested positive in a random check, which led to the ban. Aparna also forfeited valuable points acquired during the period.

Aparna had to pay a heavy price as her ranking plummeted from a pre-ban high of 28 to a present low of 52. And, it also dealt a big blow to her chances of qualifying for the Sydney Olympics. As the third player on the reserved list, she still has a hope of making it to Sydney.

Aparna told The Hindu, ``I am glad it is finally over. There were not any big tournaments either during the period. I know I have lost points, and I will work hard to improve my ranking.''

She also resumed training about a fortnight ago and, depending on her fitness, is likely to play in the Malaysian Open and Singapore Open championships in August and later Aparna will participate in European tournaments in October.

- Our Special Correspondent

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