The Man Who Made India Believe in Badminton

There was a time when badminton wasn’t a sport people spoke about in India. Cricket had its heroes, hockey had its legends, but badminton? It was just a game played in streets and clubs. Then came a man who changed it all. Nandu Natekar. A name that made the world look at India differently, a player who made the country believe that badminton wasn’t just a pastime—it was a sport where Indians could shine. Imagine this—it's 1956, the Selangor International Badminton Championship in Malaysia. The crowd is full of players from powerhouse countries—Malaysia, Indonesia, Denmark. Nobody expects an Indian to go far. But match after match, this man with effortless grace and deadly precision keeps winning. The final arrives. A few minutes later, history is made. Nandu Natekar becomes the first Indian to win an international badminton title. A moment that should have been on the front pages of newspapers, but badminton didn’t get that kind of recognition back then. He didn’t mind. His racket spoke louder than words. Long before players had personal coaches, fitness trainers, and sponsorship deals, there was Nandu Natekar, playing with pure passion and skill. Six times he won the National Championship in India. He walked onto courts where the odds were stacked against him and walked out as a champion. In 1954, he played at the prestigious All England Championships, the biggest stage in badminton, competing against the world’s best. For a country that had never seen success in the sport, this was like an Indian cricketer playing at Lord’s for the first time.
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The Resurgence of Dinesh Karthik.

On March 18, 2018, a senior player of the Indian cricket team made a remarkable comeback, proving his worth not only to the opposition but also to Indian fans. The match was the final of the Nidhas Trophy, where India faced Bangladesh. Bangladesh batted first and set a target of 166 runs. As the Indian batters began chasing, Captain Rohit Sharma scored 56 off 42 balls, but the strike rates of the other batters were not quite up to the mark considering the target. By the 18th over, everyone thought India might lose the match, as they needed 34 runs off the last two overs. Then, the show began: Rubel bowled to Dinesh Karthik (DK), who hit a six on the first ball, followed by a four on the second ball, and another six on the third ball. DK smashed 22 runs in that over, easing the pressure on the Indian team. However, the tension was not completely alleviated, as India needed 5 runs off the last ball of the innings. Indian fans hoped for the ball to reach the boundary so they could have a super over, but DK delivered a spectacular six on the last ball, securing the victory. In 2022, DK was picked by RCB (Royal Challengers Bangalore), marking a resurgence in his T20 career. Some of his impressive stats included 66 runs off 34 balls against Delhi Capitals, 37 runs off 17 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders, 52 runs off 28 balls against Chennai Super Kings, 45 runs off 18 balls against Mumbai Indians, and his highest score after his comeback, 85 runs off just 35 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He became a crucial support for RCB as a middle-order batsman and finisher. In 2024, DK announced his retirement across all formats and later returned to RCB as a mentor and batting coach. This masterful coach assembled a very balanced team for RCB, showing his knack for making the impossible possible.
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Game On: The Story of Sahaij Sekhon’s Rise in Indian Hoops

There’s an Indian basketball player making quiet but powerful strides in the world of hoops Sahaij Pratap Singh Sekhon. Born on September 1, 2001, he plays as a point guard, and honestly, he’s someone who truly stands out. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall, he brings both height and hustle to the court. But what really sets him apart is his game sense, his confidence under pressure, and his ability to make things happen when it matters most. Sekhon didn’t always have basketball in his sights. Like many kids growing up in India, he started with cricket and soccer. His switch to basketball happened thanks to coach Rakesh Kumar, who spotted his potential early on and encouraged him to pursue the sport seriously. At Vivek High School in Chandigarh, he started making waves, playing for the U-19 team in 2017. Later, when he transferred to SD School, a growth spurt combined with hard work really took his game to the next level. Since then, his journey has been nothing short of inspiring. He’s represented India on the international stage, including the FIBA Asia Cup in 2022. Even though he was relatively new to that level of play, he still averaged 6.5 points per game, which is a solid performance for someone just stepping onto the big stage. But he didn’t stop there. In the 2023 Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament in Syria, he came back even stronger, averaging 11.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. That kind of progress in just one year says a lot about his work ethic and growth. His momentum has continued into the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, where he remains a core player for the Indian team. He’s matured into a playmaker, someone who not only scores but also creates opportunities for teammates and plays tough defense. In a team that’s still finding its identity on the global stage, Sekhon has started to emerge as a leader. Domestically, he represents Chandigarh and continues to leave his mark in tournaments across the country. But beyond the court, what’s really commendable is his dedication to giving back. He’s been actively organizing basketball clinics to help younger players develop their skills and gain exposure to the game. At just 23, he’s already thinking about how to uplift the sport in India, which shows a lot of character. Watching him play, you get the sense that he’s not just playing for the present he’s building something for the future. Sahaij Pratap Singh Sekhon is more than just a name on a jersey. He represents belief, grit, and the hope that Indian basketball can rise higher. If he keeps pushing forward the way he has, there's no doubt he’ll be remembered as one of the key players who helped take Indian hoops to the next level.
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kidambi Srikanth: The Silent Warrior Who Shattered Expectations

In the world of badminton, where legends are celebrated and new stars emerge, Kidambi Srikanth's journey stands as a testament to resilience and determination. Born on February 7, 1993, in Ravulapalem, Andhra Pradesh, Srikanth's rise from a small-town boy to the pinnacle of world badminton is nothing short of inspiring. The year was 2014. The stage was set at the China Open Super Series Premier. Facing the formidable Lin Dan, a five-time World Champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Srikanth was the underdog. But defying all odds, he clinched victory in straight sets (21–19, 21–17), becoming the first Indian to win a Super Series Premier men's title. The badminton world took notice; India had found a new hero. Fast forward to 2017, the Indonesia Open. Srikanth faced South Korea's Son Wan Ho in the semifinals. With a prior head-to-head record favoring Son, and Srikanth ranked World No.22 against Son's World No.1 status, the odds seemed stacked against him. Yet, showcasing unparalleled grit, Srikanth triumphed, marking one of the biggest wins of his career. April 2018 saw Srikanth achieving the coveted World No.1 ranking, a moment of pride for Indian badminton. His consistent performances and dedication had propelled him to the zenith of the sport. In 2021, Srikanth scripted history by becoming the first Indian male shuttler to reach the finals of the BWF World Championships, securing a silver medal. This achievement further cemented his legacy as one of India's badminton greats. Beyond individual accolades, Srikanth played a pivotal role in India's historic Thomas Cup victory in 2022. His win against Indonesia's Jonatan Christie in the final was instrumental in securing India's first-ever title in the tournament's history. Srikanth's journey is not just about titles and rankings; it's about breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks. From a young boy in Andhra Pradesh to a global badminton icon, his story inspires countless aspiring athletes to dream big and persevere against all odds.
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Making the Impossible to Possible ft: Jasprit Bumrah

On April 4, 2013, in the IPL match between Mumbai and Bengaluru, a bowler with a unique action emerged, smashing the wickets. His name is Jasprit Bumrah, and he is considered one of the finest bowlers India has ever produced. His performance speaks volumes. Bumrah's first IPL wicket was Virat Kohli; his first ODI wicket was Steve Smith; his first Test wicket was AB de Villiers; and his first T20 International wicket was David Warner. These milestones exemplify his capabilities in cricket. In 2013, Bumrah was picked up by the Mumbai Indians, and that same year, Mumbai won their first title. Although he played only two matches that season, he made a significant impact. Today, he is a key bowler for Mumbai and, of course, for the Indian cricket team. Bumrah's economy rates are notable: in the IPL, his economy rate is around 7; in T20 Internationals, it is around 6; in ODIs, it is around 4.5; and in Test cricket, it is around 2. During his time playing in Australia, he was called the "toe crusher" and "yorker king" for his precise yorkers. Let's discuss a match that showcased Bumrah at his best. On June 29, 2024, in the ICC T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa, South Africa was in a commanding position, needing just 30 runs off 30 balls. Indian captain Rohit Sharma, worried about the match slipping away, handed the ball to Bumrah. On that day, Bumrah bowled with incredible precision, making the ball seem like bullets to the batters. His performance turned the game around, leading India to victory and winning the title.That day he made the impossible to possible. Bumrah was also named Player of the Series for that edition of the tournament. His contributions were instrumental in securing that T20 World Cup for India. Bumrah also set a world record, but not with the ball—with the bat. On July 2, 2022, in a Test match against England, he scored 35 runs in a single over against Stuart Broad. With two sixes and three fours, he demonstrated that a bowler can indeed excel with the bat as well. In conclusion, in the current Indian cricket team, the master of batting is Virat Kohli, and the master of bowling is Jasprit Bumrah. There wouldn't be anyone who disagrees with this statement.
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Divya Singh: The Court Visionary Who Transformed Indian Basketball

Divya Singh is one of the most remarkable figures in Indian basketball, a player whose journey has been defined by determination, skill, and an undying love for the game. Born on July 21, 1982, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, she grew up in what is famously known as the "Basketball Family of India." Her sisters Prashanti, Akanksha, and Pratima have all represented India at various levels, making their family one of the most influential in Indian basketball history. With such an inspiring environment, it was only natural that Divya developed an early passion for the sport and went on to make a lasting impact on the game in India. Standing at 6 feet tall, Divya played as a guard/forward and became an integral part of the Indian women’s national basketball team. Her leadership skills were evident from a young age, and she ultimately captained the team during the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, an achievement that cemented her legacy as one of the best basketball players in India. She was known not just for her strategic play but also for her ability to uplift and motivate her teammates, making her a crucial asset on the court. Divya’s journey did not stop at just playing the sport. She always had a keen interest in understanding the game beyond just being a player, which led her to pursue sports management. She went on to study at the University of Delaware from 2008 to 2010, further refining her knowledge of the sport. During this time, she also worked as an assistant coach for the university’s women's basketball team, gaining valuable coaching experience that she would later bring back to India.
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Explosion of the dynamo: Ishan Kishan.

Ishan Kishan, the dynamo from Jharkhand, has emerged as one of the most electrifying talents in Indian cricket. In the high-voltage world of ODIs, Kishan sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity in December 2022 with an awe-inspiring 210-run blitz against Bangladesh, setting the record books aflame with his sheer batting prowess. This monumental innings showcased his ability to toy with bowlers and dominate the crease, earning him the title of "Pocket Dynamo." Despite his compact stature, Kishan packs a powerful punch, proving that big things often come in small packages. Kishan's journey to stardom took a significant leap in 2018 when Mumbai Indians (MI) spotted his talent and picked him to reinforce their squad. Under the aegis of cricketing stalwarts at MI, he fine-tuned his skills and developed the temperament needed to excel in high-pressure situations. His scintillating performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) not only bolstered MI's batting lineup but also caught the discerning eyes of the national selectors. His aggressive batting style, combined with his ability to maintain composure during crunch moments, made him a vital cog in MI's campaigns and subsequently earned him a coveted spot in the Indian cricket team in 2021. In the current IPL edition, he astounded everyone with a century at an impressive strike rate of 225.5, notching up 11 fours and 6 sixes. He truly demonstrated the essence of a pocket dynamo, proving his exceptional talent. His explosive performance in this match was electrifying, surpassing all expectations. He perfectly lived up to the hype surrounding the SRH batting lineup, nearly dismantling the RR bowlers single-handedly. Wishing him continued success in his career.
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Anmol Kharb: The Unstoppable Force in Indian Badminton

In the world of badminton, where legends like Saina Nehwal and P.V. Sindhu have set high benchmarks, a player comes along who doesn’t just play the game but changes it. Anmol Kharb is one of them,a new star has emerged from the heart of Haryana. Not many knew her name before the 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships, but now, the world knows what she is capable of. A 16-year-old girl, standing fearless against some of the best in the world, not just competing but winning when it mattered the most. It all started in Faridabad, where Anmol was just another kid with a badminton racket in her hand. Inspired by her elder brother, she picked up the sport, but while he chose studies, she chose the court. That decision changed everything. She trained hard, moved to Noida for better coaching, and by the age of 12, she was already making headlines. Winning the U-17 All India Ranking title in 2019 was just the beginning. The same year, she reached the semi-finals of a senior tournament, proving that age was just a number for her. Fast forward to December 2023, the Senior National Badminton Championships in Guwahati. Anmol, just 16 years old, went up against the best in India and won. It wasn’t just a title; it was a statement. She was here, and she was ready. But the world had still not seen what she could truly do. That moment came in February 2024. India was up against China in the Badminton Asia Team Championships. The pressure was immense, and the match was tied. The responsibility fell on Anmol’s shoulders. A 16-year-old girl, ranked 472nd in the world, was going up against China’s Wu Luo Yu. The match was intense, every rally a battle, but Anmol stood tall. She won. The victory sent a message—she wasn’t just playing; she was here to win. Then came the semi-finals against Japan. Once again, the match went down to the wire. Once again, Anmol had to step up. This time, against world No. 29 Natsuki Nidaira. And she did it again. Straight sets. No nerves, no hesitation, just pure determination. India was in the finals. The final against Thailand. The biggest moment of her career so far. The championship depended on her match. And what did she do? She dominated. She crushed world No. 45 Pornpicha Choeikeewong in straight sets, securing India's first-ever gold medal in the women’s Badminton Asia Team Championships. The moment she won, history was made. The celebrations, the cheers, the emotions—it was all there. And in the middle of it was a 16-year-old who had just announced her arrival to the world.
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Aravind Kumar Muthu Krishnan Dribbling Dreams into Reality

Aravind Kumar Muthu Krishnan’s journey in basketball is a story of relentless dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the game. Born on March 16, 2000, in Tamil Nadu, India, Aravind grew up in a supportive family that encouraged his athletic aspirations. His father, a former athlete, and his mother, a strong pillar of support, played crucial roles in shaping his sports career. From a young age, Aravind displayed an instinctive understanding of the game, quickly developing the skills and discipline necessary to compete at the highest level. His rise through the ranks of Indian basketball was not an overnight success. Aravind spent countless hours perfecting his craft, training rigorously to sharpen his shooting, ball-handling, and defensive abilities. His hard work paid off when he earned a place in the Tamil Nadu state team, where he made an immediate impact. Representing his state in national championships, he showcased his ability to lead, displaying remarkable composure under pressure and an ability to dictate the pace of the game. His performances earned him widespread recognition, cementing his status as one of the most promising players in the country. Aravind’s breakthrough came when he was called up to represent the Indian national team. Competing at the FIBA Asia Cup and the World Cup qualifiers, he proved himself as a reliable guard with an exceptional ability to read the game. His performances spoke volumes about his dedication, averaging solid numbers in scoring, rebounds, and assists. More importantly, he demonstrated an unselfish playing style, always looking to elevate his teammates and create opportunities on the court. Whether it was knocking down crucial shots or making game-changing defensive plays, he became a vital asset to the team. His leadership qualities and work ethic set him apart, earning him the respect of his teammates and coaches alike.
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Gabbar’s Grit: The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of Shikhar Dhawan

Achieving success in cricket is not always easy. Some people take diversions, experience setbacks, and come out stronger. Shikhar Dhawan's narrative is one of endurance, resilience, and unwavering faith in oneself. Born in Delhi, Dhawan was always a natural stroke-maker. From a young age, his aggressive batting caught attention, and he quickly became a star in age-group cricket. He announced himself on the big stage in the 2004 U-19 World Cup, finishing as the tournament’s leading run-scorer. A bright future seemed inevitable, but fate had other plans. Despite his promise, Dhawan struggled to break into the Indian team. Years of hard work in domestic cricket weren’t enough as others got their chances ahead of him. Critics started labeling him as just another talented player who couldn’t make the leap to the international stage. But Dhawan refused to be written off. He kept grinding, kept scoring runs, and waited for his moment. That moment finally arrived in 2013. Called up for his Test debut against Australia, Dhawan didn’t just grab the opportunity—he made history. Smashing the fastest century on Test debut by an Indian, he announced his arrival in style. With his trademark swagger, fearless approach, and signature mustache twirl, he had finally arrived. From there, he became India’s go-to opener in ODIs and T20s. His performances in ICC tournaments were nothing short of spectacular. He was the highest run-scorer in the 2013 Champions Trophy, a key contributor in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, and a consistent performer in crucial matches. His ability to dominate bowlers in pressure situations made him a fan favorite. Yet, setbacks never left his side. Injuries, form slumps, and competition for places in the team meant Dhawan had to continuously prove himself. Even when the selectors started looking beyond him, he never let his passion fade. He transitioned into a mentor role, leading younger players and showcasing his leadership in domestic tournaments and the IPL. Shikhar Dhawan’s journey isn’t just about runs and records. It’s about resilience, about never giving up despite the odds. He may have faced more obstacles than most, but each time, he has risen, proving that the warrior spirit never fades. Whether he’s playing for India or entertaining fans with his infectious energy, one thing is certain—Gabbar never backs down.
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