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Saina set for tough return, Jwala-Diju aim for 2nd title
Back on the court after a month, Saina Nehwal will battle it out against a tough field while the mixed doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and V Diju will aim for a second title at the Japan Open Super Series starting tomorrow in Tokyo.
Back on the court after a month, Saina Nehwal will battle it out against a tough field while the mixed doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and V Diju will aim for a second title at the Japan Open Super Series starting on Wednesday in Tokyo.
After reaching the quarterfinal of the World Badminton Championship last month, Saina missed the China Masters as she missed the deadline to send her entry.
The Hyderabadi girl returns to action now, opening her campaign against world number 10 Chinese Yanjiao Jiang in the women's singles tomorrow.
Eighth seed Saina said it would be a tough battle but promised to give the Chinese a good fight.
"It is a tough draw. I am in the second half and there are players like Pi Hongyan, Tine Russmussen. So, it is difficult but I am not bothered. At the moment, it's just the first match and I am well prepared for the challenge.
"I am playing the world number 10 and I have played her twice and the last time was in the Asian Championship. I lost in three sets. But I am prepared this time and will give her a good fight," she said.
India's hopes will also rest on Jwala and Diju, who won the Chinese Taipei Grand Prix Gold last month.
The seventh seeded pair will open their campaign against the Thai pair of Sudket Prapakamol and Saralee Thungthongkam and Diju said they are aiming for at least the semifinals.
