India’s 2012 Olympics bronze medalist in badminton, Saina Nehwal, has transitioned into politics while remaining a prominent figure in the sporting world. In a recent podcast with Shubhankar Mishra, Saina expressed her concern about the disparity in support and resources between cricket and other sports in India. She argued that India could produce many more Olympic medalists if all sports received facilities and funding comparable to cricket.
Saina questioned the number of badminton academies in the country compared to the abundance of cricket academies. “If we had that many academies for badminton, the best facilities, why wouldn’t we get quality players?” she asked. She emphasized the lack of remuneration for badminton players, saying, “We don’t get any salary for playing, we get nothing. What we are today is all because of our own efforts.”
In contrast, she acknowledged the exceptional support provided to cricketers. “Cricket’s situation is such that the players are well taken care of. Best doctors, best physios, best trainers.” Saina highlighted the example of fast bowler Mohammed Shami, who is currently undergoing rehabilitation for an Achilles tendon injury. “Shami recently got injured, everything (related to his recovery) is being looked after. Soon he will be back in the team,” she stated.
In a lighthearted exchange, Mishra remarked that cricket is a dangerous sport. Saina responded playfully, “Why do I have to play cricket with Jasprit Bumrah! If he plays badminton with me, he won’t be able to take my 300kmph smash.” Her comments highlight the inherent disparity in resources and support, urging for a more equitable distribution of funding and facilities across all sports in India.
