Date:05/06/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/06/05/stories/2007060502831800.htm

Sport - Badminton

Team for Sudirman Cup cleared

NEW DELHI: After a brief spell of uncertainty, the Union Sports Ministry has cleared a nine-member Indian badminton team for the Sudirman Cup mixed team championship to be held in Glasgow from June 11 to 17.

The Badminton Association of India secretary L.C. Gupta confirmed that it took an explanation from the BAI President V.K. Verma for the Ministry to be convinced about the composition of the team.

"Only P. Kashyap was not cleared on cost. So the BAI has decided to foot the youngster's bills. All other members of the team are cleared on cost," said Mr. Gupta.

On the fitness of Sanave Thomas, V. Diju and Aditi Mutatkar, Mr. Gupta said, "every one is fit and there is no worry on this count."

Chief National coach P. Gopi Chand said Rupesh Kumar, who had to miss practice for a week due to an ankle injury, would resume training on Tuesday.

The team: Anup Sridhar, P. Kashyap, Rupesh Kumar, Sanave Thomas, V. Diju, Saina Nehwal, Aditi Mutatkar, Ashwini Poonappa, Aparna Balan and Nitya Sosale. Coaches: P. Gopi Chand and Bhaskar Babu. — Special Correspondent